District spotlights 'Buster' bus-safety program that uses a life-size prop and skits for student outreach
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Summary
Wappingers Central’s transportation department showcased 'Buster' — an almost life-size remote-control bus prop and skit-based safety program for elementary students — crediting collaboration with facilities and RCK theater students and reporting plans to expand programming and incentives.
The Wappingers Central School District highlighted a transportation safety program Dec. 15 that uses an almost life-size remote-control bus character called "Buster" to teach bus safety to elementary students.
Superintendent Doctor Bonk introduced the program as part of a superintendent spotlight, saying it was "phenomenal" and praising the transportation team’s creativity. Andrew Rivera, supervisor of transportation, credited facilities staff, RCK theater and art students, mechanics and volunteer bus drivers for building and touring the prop across schools and community events. "My name is Andrew Rivera. I'm the supervisor of transportation," Rivera said as he introduced staff who supported the program.
The performer who operates Buster described interactive skits in which drivers and student actors model proper and improper bus behavior to prompt discussion and participation, saying, "So this is Buster. And Buster is awesome." The program has been used at elementary schools, touch-a-truck events and county traffic safety events; Rivera said the district targeted K–2 students but found older students also respond positively. The team plans a possible "bus of the month" rewards program and additional presentations during the holidays.
Board members thanked the transportation team and assistant superintendent Kristin Dainty for overseeing the effort. The presentation was followed by applause and informal remarks of appreciation from board members.
