At a recent Board of Education meeting, the Three Village Central School District recognized bus driver Joe Trapani and bus attendant Juana Nunez for their swift and courageous actions that ensured the safety of students during a dangerous incident.

On April 22, while transporting special-needs students home from Arrowhead Elementary, Trapani noticed the smell of smoke coming from the minibus. He immediately pulled over and, together with Nunez, safely evacuated all students. Within minutes, the bus was fully engulfed in flames.

Thanks to their quick thinking and calm response, all students were unharmed. Trapani and Nunez personally contacted each child’s family to inform them that their children were safe.

The fire was so intense it destroyed the vehicle, leaving only the steel frame intact. Despite the severity of the situation, a potential tragedy was avoided due to the care and professionalism of the transportation staff.

The district commended both Trapani and Nunez for their heroic actions and for putting student safety above all else.

Date Added: 5/16/2025