They're long, yellow and the biggest type of mass transit in the country. Almost half a million school buses transport 24 million students to and from school each day. Yet, they account for one third of one percent of all fatal traffic accidents. There's a reason for that.
Come with us to a unique rodeo where bucking broncs aren't allowed.

Roger Kerns knows school buses. He's driven them for 30 years.
Today, he's negotiating a grueling obstacle course. It's called the school bus safety rodeo. You won't find any bull-riding here.
But, you'll still see plenty of close calls.

“That was tight,” said Roger.

“This is the chance for drivers to show what they know,” said Patty Pauley, Director of Transportation for Cabell County Schools.

Cabell County Schools is hosting this regional competition that covers 13 states featuring 33 including five from Cabell County.

“There’s no question it makes them better drivers,” said Patty.

Roger can vouch for that. He’s won four titles including some national titles. This year, he's the director showing us the ropes. The course tests 13 skills. Many people can’t parallel park a car. But, on this course, you have to parallel park a bus!

In the end, the person with the most points wins bragging rights and the satisfaction of knowing they know their stuff.

The top ten contestants received trophies. The top three won cash awards. One more thing, to get to the regionals, you not only had to win your state competition, you also had to be accident free.