Q: What is your role as a public-school bus driver? What do you handle daily?

A: My role as a public-school bus driver is to transport students to and from school safely so that they are ready for a productive day of learning. I also alert the school and/or the transportation department of any issues that may arise among students while on the bus. Bus drivers teach their passengers proper procedures and rules about appropriate behavior toward each other and the driver to facilitate safe transportation to and from school.  

Q: What type of professional training and standards do you complete for your position?

A: Bus drivers in my school district attend an annual in-service meeting held during summer vacation that focuses on the many safety issues that may arise while transporting students, as well as medical emergencies that may occur.

Drivers are also required to renew their “yellow card” every year per Indiana law. This renewal involves training that reinforces safety and provides up-to-date information on issues relating to the transportation of students. This training also provides an overview of the laws and regulations that govern the transportation of students.

Bus drivers are required to hold a CDL driver’s license with school bus endorsement. Drivers are required to pass a physical examination every one to two years. They are also required to pass a skills test on and around the bus. In addition, bus drivers are required to submit to random drug and alcohol screenings a minimum of twice a year (or as needed).

Q: How do public-school bus drivers impact student achievement?  

A: The bus driver and the school bus environment can set the tone for the students’ day. The driver is charged with keeping students safe and free from harassment so they are ready to start their day with no worries. Many times, students confide in drivers about problems they may have at home, at school or on the bus. Drivers work to help students start and end their days in a safe environment so they can focus on achievement.

Q: How does having organized, public-school bus drivers influence the school day for kids?

A: Organized drivers are better prepared and informed because of the networking that occurs in the Association. Organized drivers are also more aware of the issues that impact public education.

Q: What impact do organized, public-school bus drivers have on a school district and broader community? What type of support, if any, do you receive from the community, parents and kids?

A: The administration supports drivers, and drivers support the administration. Drivers also support the teachers’ association. We work together to support public education. The school corporation is more efficient and productive when it is working with the bus drivers’ association on transportation issues.

Bus drivers work outside of the school to promote public education by volunteering at various community events throughout the school year.  

Visit IChoosePublicSchools.org for more information on public education in Indiana.