Perry Community School District Transportation Director Troy Griffith has received the 2023 Tom Horn Memorial Award from the Iowa Pupil Transportation Association (IPTA), the PCSD School Board learned Monday night at its regular monthly meeting.
The Tom Horn Memorial Award award goes to an IPTA member who is “serving in the capacity of school transportation director, supervisor or administrator and who, in the eyes of his or her peers, has exhibited exemplary leadership skills and service to Iowa’s pupil transportation program, school district and community,” according to the IPTA.
Griffith, a 1984 graduate of Perry High School, has had an impact on the school district and the Perry-area community for 30 years, leading the PCSD to a high level of safety and reliability in student transportation — even during transportation shortages and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Max Christensen, executive officer for transportation in the Iowa Department of Education, said Griffith’s accomplishments set the standard statewide.
“Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with and get to know tons of school transportation directors, and not just here in Iowa,” Christensen said. “I’ve watched Troy grow into being one of the best transportation directors in the state of Iowa.”
Beyond his dedication, Griffith’s ability to foster relationships with his team, students, parents and school personnel has built his reputation as an effective transportation director. His professional devotion is widely admired in the district.
“Troy truly stays busy, typically putting in 11 to 12 hour days every day,” said PCSD Superintendent Clark Wicks. “Yet he’s always got time to help others in need and to offer support and help to whomever may ask. Troy’s number one goal is student safety, he does a great job of keeping us all safe.
Griffith’s achievements will be celebrated during Back To School Night at the Perry Farmers Market this Thursday, Aug. 17 starting at 4 p.m. in the Josh Davis Plaza in downtown Perry. The PCSD is also hiring bus drivers and offering up to $4,000 in incentives. Call Griffith at 515-465-5513 for more information.
In other district business, the school board approved the Junior-Senior Prom Committee’s plan to permit Kona Ice to sell its products at the PHS Homecoming game Sept. 15. Committee members Kaylee Wuebker and Kaitlyn Leber said the fundraiser will strongly support the annual event.
