Supervisor of Transportation

North Kingstown School Department•North Kingstown, RI

About The Position

The North Kingstown School Department is located in the coastal community of North Kingstown, a town known for its rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and strong sense of community. Serving approximately 3,800–4,000 students, the district is made up of a diverse and engaged student body supported by dedicated educators and staff. The district includes a total of 9 schools: five elementary schools, one early learning center, two middle schools, and North Kingstown High School. Each school is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and academically challenging environment where students are encouraged to grow, achieve, and thrive. With a strong focus on student-centered learning, community collaboration, and continuous improvement, the North Kingstown School Department takes pride in providing high-quality educational opportunities that prepare students for success both in school and beyond. Summary of Responsibilities: The Transportation Supervisor is responsible for the comprehensive oversight, coordination, and continuous improvement of the district’s transportation program, ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable service for all students. Serving approximately 3,800–4,000 students across multiple schools, the transportation system is a critical operational component of the North Kingstown School Department—a high-performing, student-centered district known for its strong community partnerships, commitment to excellence, and dedication to supporting the whole child. This role requires strategic planning, daily operational management, and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to meet the diverse needs of general education and specialized populations. The Transportation Supervisor leads the design, implementation, and ongoing management of all transportation systems, including routing, scheduling, staffing, contract administration, and vehicle maintenance. The position ensures that transportation services are aligned with district priorities, student needs, safety regulations, and fiscal responsibility. The Transportation Supervisor plays a vital role in ensuring equitable access to education by providing safe, timely, and efficient transportation for all students. Given the scale of the district and the complexity of its transportation needs—including daily routes, athletic and extracurricular travel, and specialized services—this position is essential to the smooth operation of the North Kingstown School Department and the overall student experience.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in business administration, five to seven years supervisory experience in school transportation systems or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Valid RI driver’s license.
Technological proficiency in major computer software including Microsoft Office, ASPEN, Google and Versa-Trans Routing and Trip Tracker Software.
Capable of responding simultaneously to a variety of requests from internal colleagues, maintaining sensitivity to the needs of parents, students and community members, and ensuring overall satisfaction as a primary objective. Strong communication skills both verbal and written.
Ability to effectively plan and prioritize. Strong organizational skills, time-management skills.
Ability to interact with administration, staff, students, and parents in an effective manner. Ability to effectively handle issues utilizing a personable problem-solving approach.
Ability to maintain complete confidentiality on all school, administrative, family and student issues.

Responsibilities

System Planning and Routing: Directs the overall scheduling and design of transportation services, including route development, bus stop planning, and driver assignments to efficiently serve all district schools and programs.
Efficiency and Cost Management: Develops and implements transportation routes that maximize efficiency and cost-effectiveness while adhering to district policies and maintaining high standards of student safety and service.
Staff Supervision and Leadership: Provides direct supervision and leadership to all transportation personnel, including bus drivers, contracted providers, monitors, paraprofessionals, and office staff (dispatcher/account clerk). Fosters a collaborative and accountable team environment.
Staff Scheduling and Coverage: Oversees daily staffing logistics, including assignment of drivers and monitors, and ensures continuity of service through proactive management of absences, vacancies, and substitute coverage.
Technology and Systems Management: Develops and maintains computerized routing and field trip tracking systems to support efficient operations, accurate reporting, and effective communication with schools and families.
Contract Negotiations and Administration: Serves as a key member of the district’s negotiation team for transportation-related collective bargaining agreements and manages relationships with contracted transportation providers to ensure compliance and performance.
Fleet Oversight: Oversees the maintenance, repair, and replacement planning for all district-owned vehicles, ensuring safety, reliability, and compliance with state and federal regulations.
Stakeholder Communication and Issue Resolution: Addresses and resolves transportation concerns from parents, school administrators, and community members in a timely and professional manner, maintaining a strong focus on customer service.
Specialized Transportation Coordination: Collaborates closely with the Student Services Department to ensure the safe, appropriate, and legally compliant transportation of students with special needs, including those requiring individualized transportation plans.
Regulatory Compliance and Best Practices: Remains current on federal and state transportation regulations, industry trends, and emerging technologies to continuously improve the district’s transportation services.
District Leadership and Reporting: Participates in School Committee meetings, budget development sessions, and other district leadership meetings as requested. Provides data, analysis, and recommendations to support informed decision-making.
Additional Duties: Performs other responsibilities as assigned by the Director of Operations or Superintendent to support the overall operations of the district.