A Cleveland-area school bus carrying 15 students caught fire Thursday morning, but all students were safely evacuated thanks to the driver’s quick actions.

The fire started behind a rear wheel while en route to Monticello Middle School.

Superintendent Liz Kirby praised the driver and students for their calm response, crediting annual evacuation drills.

Another vehicle transported the students to school, where support staff assisted them.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, though the bus had passed inspection in February, NBC News has reported.

Firefighters quickly contained the blaze, which sent thick smoke into the air.

Written by B.C. Begley