Five current and retired Bettendorf Community School District transportation employees are being recognized by the Iowa Pupil Transportation Association (IPTA) for their extraordinary years of service and unwavering dedication to safely transporting students throughout their careers.
The IPTA Longevity Service Award honors transportation professionals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to serving students, families, and their school communities.
Tina Dau - 46 Years of Service
Tina Dau began her school transportation career in August 1980 with the Davenport Community School District. After nearly 37 years with Davenport, she joined the Bettendorf Community School District in June 2017. Throughout her career, Tina has served as a regular education and special education bus driver, special education bus aide, and special education van driver. Today, she continues to serve Bettendorf students as a special education van driver.
Karen Farnum - 46 Years of Service
Karen Farnum also began her school transportation career in 1980 with the Davenport Community School District. In August 2012, she joined the Bettendorf Community School District. During her career, Karen has served as both a regular education and special education bus driver. She continues to drive a special education bus route for BCSD students each day.
Marsha Baker - 38 Years of Service
Marsha Baker began her career with the Bettendorf Community School District on January 4, 1988. Throughout her tenure, she has served as a part-time special education bus driver. More than 38 years later, Marsha continues to provide safe and dependable transportation for students on her daily special education bus route.
Linda Burress - 39 Years of Service
Linda Burress began her school bus driving career with the Bettendorf Community School District on August 27, 1979. She served the district until May 2012, when she stepped away to address personal health concerns. In January 2018, she returned to the driver's seat and continued serving students until her retirement on June 5, 2024.
During her career, Linda served as a part-time regular education bus driver. Although retired, she remains an active member of the transportation community, regularly attending employee and retiree gatherings and maintaining strong connections with her colleagues.
Jen DeSha - 24 Years of Service
Jen DeSha began her transportation career with BCSD in July 2000 as a part-time dispatcher. Over the years, she also assisted as a substitute school bus driver. In July 2025, Jen transitioned into her current role as Director of Operations Administrative Assistant. Her extensive knowledge of the Transportation Department continues to be an invaluable resource to the district and its staff.
"We are incredibly grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and care these individuals have shown throughout their careers," said Scott Martin, Director of Operations. "Their commitment to ensuring students arrive safely at school and home each day has made a lasting impact on countless families and has helped support student success for decades."
The Bettendorf Community School District congratulates Tina, Karen, Marsha, Linda, and Jen on this well-deserved recognition and thanks them for their many years of service to students and the community.