Mecklenburg County Public Schools Recognized for Innovation in Student Transportation
District Receives Regional Award for Technology That Improves School Bus Safety and Family Communication
MECKLENBURG COUNTY, VA — Mecklenburg County Public Schools (MCPS) has been recognized for its commitment to innovation, student safety, and family communication, earning the Innovation in Education, Government, or Community Outreach Award at the Southern Piedmont Technology Council's (SPTC) 2026 Innovation Stars Awards Banquet.
The awards ceremony, held October 27 at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research in Danville, brought together business, education, and community leaders to recognize individuals and organizations making significant contributions to technological advancement throughout Southern Virginia.
MCPS received the honor for its successful implementation of Stopfinder, a mobile application designed to improve school transportation communication by providing families with real-time information about their children's school buses.
Serving a geographically expansive rural community, MCPS operates a fleet of approximately 120 school vehicles that collectively travel more than 11,000 miles each day. Despite the considerable distances covered, the division continues to maintain a strong transportation safety record, reflecting the dedication and professionalism of its transportation staff.
Through Stopfinder, the division has introduced a more accessible and efficient way for families to stay informed about their students' transportation.
The secure, invitation-only application allows parents and guardians to view their child's bus location on an interactive map, establish customized geographic notification zones, and receive alerts as buses approach designated locations. The platform also allows the Transportation Department to communicate important updates directly to families, including route changes, delays, and weather-related adjustments.
Since its implementation, Stopfinder has gained significant community participation, with more than 2,800 registered accounts. The platform has become an essential component of the division's transportation communication plan, helping families stay connected to daily operations across its fleet of school vehicles.
The initiative represents more than the adoption of a new technology platform. It reflects the division's broader commitment to identifying practical solutions that strengthen operations, improve communication, and enhance the overall experience of students and families.
MCPS is particularly proud to recognize Tammy Moore, Transportation Supervisor; Kevin Farrar, Transportation Routing Specialist; and Kimberly (Kim) Brown, Transportation Administrative Assistant, for their contributions to the success of the division's transportation operations.
Their work, alongside Brian Dalton, Executive Director of Facilities and Operations, and the entire Transportation Department, has been instrumental in coordinating the division's extensive transportation network while maintaining a strong focus on student safety, operational efficiency, and responsive communication with families.
Managing thousands of miles of daily transportation requires careful planning, coordination, and a commitment to continuous improvement. The integration of Stopfinder has provided an additional layer of communication and accountability, allowing transportation personnel to respond more efficiently to changing conditions while giving families greater confidence and access to information.
The Southern Piedmont Technology Council's Innovation Stars Awards recognize accomplishments in technology, entrepreneurship, education, and community leadership. The 2026 ceremony honored seven individuals and organizations whose contributions demonstrate how innovation can strengthen communities and expand opportunities throughout Southern Virginia.
For Mecklenburg County Public Schools, the award underscores the importance of using technology not simply for modernization, but to address real challenges and provide meaningful improvements to essential services.
As the division continues to advance its commitment to innovation and operational excellence, initiatives such as Stopfinder demonstrate how thoughtful investments in technology, combined with the dedication of experienced transportation professionals, can make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of students and families.
About Mecklenburg County Public Schools
Mecklenburg County Public Schools serves students and families throughout Mecklenburg County, Virginia. Guided by its 2026–2027 theme, Adapt. Lead. Succeed., the division remains committed to providing student-centered educational experiences, strengthening community partnerships, and pursuing innovative practices that support student achievement, safety, and success.