HISTORY OF OAPT

The Ohio Association for Pupil Transportation has been in existence in its current form since 1960, when the first annual conference was conducted.  Ohio’s former chief of pupil transportation, Hanford L. Combs was instrumental in the origination of the OAPT.

While the early association was small in number, Mr. Combs tried very hard to bring them on board with an Ohio college.  Initially, OAPT was an affiliate of the Ohio Association of Civil Service Employees.  Eventually, OAPT became the pupil transportation affiliate of the Ohio Association of School Business Officials.

Mr. Combs and the Charter Members worked to create an organization that would promote professional development. The attempts to make OAPT part of a college were specific to that cause. The group felt strongly in providing proper training for administrators.

Early gatherings and workshops were held at Ohio University in Athens. Attendees slept in un-airconditioned dorm rooms; this is a far cry from the wonderful facilities attendees enjoy today.

Over the course of 53 years, OAPT has built a network of dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to preserve ensure the safety of Ohio’s children while safeguarding public dollars.

Charter Members

The charter members of OAPT hailed from all across the State.  Many will notice the name of George Sontag, who is still actively employed as a pupil transportation administrators in the West Region at Centerville City SD.  George’s institutional knowledge and contributions to the industry is well-known and respected.