Earlier this month, South Colonie Central School District Transportation Director Peter Tunny was recognized during a ceremony held by the New York Association for Pupil Transportation (NYAPT) as their 38th Art Schock Award recipient. This award is the highest honor given by NYAPT and recognizes a transportation supervisor who has been an effective leader within the industry, in particular, an outstanding communicator on behalf of school bus safety.
“NYAPT could not have selected a better recipient for this prestigious award,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Perry. “In his nearly 40 years working in the South Colonie Transportation Department, he has demonstrated not only his devotion to the school bus transportation community but to the safety of transporting students daily. School transportation plays a major role in the educational experience of our students and we are proud to have Mr. Tunny leading those efforts here at South Colonie.”
Tunny began his transportation career with the district as a substitute bus driver in 1983. He moved on to be a bus driver in 1985, then assistant supervisor of the department in 1987. In 1989, Tunny was named Transportation Director for South Colonie Schools.
I have to tell you that I was totally caught off guard by the whole event,” said Tunny. “The Art Schock Award is a very prestigious award almost like being inducted into the New York State School Bus Industry Hall of Fame. It’s meant to recognize leaders within the industry that have been a great friend, mentor, colleague and advisor to many over the years. I have seen some true giants of the industry receive this in the past, and it’s hard to believe that I am in their company. I am truly humbled.”
Tunny’s wife Kathleen and his son Declan surprised him at the ceremony and joined him on stage as he was honored.