Wanda English Burnett
Editor

The South Ripley School Corporation has announced that Dan Goris has accepted the position of transportation supervisor.

Goris is well known in the community for his service in various capacities for the Indiana State Police, Versailles District where he is currently in a supervisory position for the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division.

Sgt. Goris told The Versailles Republican that he has enjoyed his 30 years with the Indiana State Police. He said he was looking forward to the challenge of the new position with the school. “I look forward to working with the school bus drivers and administration to accomplish the goal of getting 1200 students to and from school safely each day,” he noted.

Goris also has a goal of making himself available to parents and students who have questions, concerns or suggestions. “It’s all for a safer and more efficient transport system,” he added.

The newly hired transportation director will begin his position officially on November 15.

In addition to his credentials with a solid background in transportation, Goris has served as the commander of the State bomb squad and has been a technician with the unit since 1995. He has a list of continuing education accomplishments including attending the FBI National Academy for police supervisors, training in Federal Motor Carrier Inspections and a Technical Crash Investigator.

“I am confident that Mr. Goris will be an excellent addition to our school, and our administrative team is looking forward to working with him,” Dr. John Mehrle, superintendent of South Ripley schools wrote in a recommendation letter to the board.
Knowing the transportation supervisor position is complex, Dr. Mehrle said he felt Goris has the background and needed management skill-set to do an excellent job.
Former co-worker at the Indiana State Police, Sgt. Noel Houze Jr. agrees. He said he and Goris have served together at several State Police Youth camps where, “Dan has always been dedicated to serving youth.”

Sgt. Houze described Goris as being someone who is very dedicated to his community, having been a volunteer fireman for many years, active in the church, and serving on the South Ripley School Board, to mention a few.

“He was always available and willing to assist anyone, anytime and it didn’t matter if he was on duty or off duty,” Houze noted. He said he wishes his friend well in his new endeavor, although he will be missed at the post.