WATERBURY - All-Star Transportation's three full-service facilities that repair and maintain its fleet of school buses have each received a Blue Seal of Excellence from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

All-Star Transportation is a family-owned business based in Waterbury that provides student transportation services to 30 towns, including Newtown. The company employs more than 900 people at its 18 terminals in Connecticut.

The Blue Seal of Excellence program recognizes the skill and training along with the high-quality of service provided at facilities. All-Star's facilities have 30 service technicians at the company's service facilities in New Milford, Seymour, and Torrington. The New Milford facility services Newtown's fleet.

"We are committed to providing the safest vehicles and drivers, and it is very gratifying that our outstanding service technicians have been recognized by ASE for all that they have achieved," said All-Star Operations Manager Leslie Sheldon, according to a release from All-Star Transportation. "I believe we have the best mechanics and service facilities, which makes it possible for us to provide the high level of service that has come to distinguish our company."

To receive ASE's Blue Seal of Excellence, 75 percent of a company's service technicians must be certified by ASE. In addition, there must be a certified technician in each area of service offered. To remain in the Blue Seal program, a business must renew each year and confirm its professionals' certification status.

"Businesses that have earned the ASE Blue Seal of Excellence Recognition have gone the extra mile in support of their customers. Employing ASE-certified professionals is an important element in their overall customer satisfaction program. We salute those businesses that achieve this goal and thank them for helping promote quality automotive repair and service," said ASE President Timothy Zilke, according to the release.

ASE, based in Leesburg, Va., was founded in 1972 as an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive technicians. Technicians, engine machinists and parts specialists participate in ASE's program from all segments of the service and repair industry.