The Minnesota Association for Pupil Transportation honored Kala Henkensiefken, Special Education Transportation Manager for Bemidji Area Schools, during the 2025 Train the Trainer Conference at the St. Cloud River’s Edge Convention Center.

Henkensiefken, who is retiring in September, was recognized for her 38 years of service and long-standing commitment to student transportation in Minnesota, a release said.

She began her career in the school transportation industry in 1988 and has spent the last eight years serving the Bemidji community, where she has managed transportation services for students receiving special education.

Henkensiefken's work has been defined by compassion, attention to detail and deep knowledge of the complex logistics involved in safely transporting students with

See Full Page