LANCASTER, OH – In a coordinated effort to enhance student safety and emergency preparedness, Berne Union Local Schools hosted a comprehensive mock school bus rollover training on May 30 at the Fairfield County Fairgrounds. The event brought together school transportation staff and first responders from across Fairfield County for a day of hands-on, life-saving education.
Roughly 57 school bus drivers and transportation personnel participated in the exercise, representing Berne Union, Bloom-Carroll, Fairfield Union, Amanda-Clearcreek, and Lancaster City Schools. The training featured a simulated rollover accident, giving participants a realistic look at the chaos and challenges that come with such a scenario.
Participants were able to climb into a rolled-over bus to better understand what first responders face during an emergency. Student volunteers acted as injured passengers while emergency crews demonstrated a full recovery operation, walking drivers through the steps first responders take upon arrival and what information and support they need from transportation staff.
“This training is about more than just protocol—it’s about confidence and preparedness,” said Berne Union Superintendent Jon Parker. “We’re incredibly proud of our transportation team and thankful to all the districts and first responders who joined us in this effort.”
Berne Union staff also shared details of their student emergency folders, offering other districts practical tools for handling similar incidents. The event sparked valuable discussions among drivers and emergency crews, encouraging future collaboration and stronger, more unified safety strategies.
“Prepared drivers mean safer kids,” said Angie Barnes, Transportation and Maintenance staff member for Berne Union. “Seeing staff from different districts exchange ideas and learn together is the greatest success of the day.”
The training was made possible through partnerships with the Berne Township Fire Department, Pleasant Township Fire Department, Midwest Towing and Recovery, Air Evac Pleasant Township, and the Fairfield County Fairgrounds. The day underscored the critical role of proactive safety planning and the importance of strong school-community partnerships.
Berne Union Local Schools is located in Sugar Grove, Ohio, and remains committed to developing students of character, resilience, and adaptability prepared to thrive in a changing world. For more information, visit buschools.com.
