Driving a school bus is more than just a job — it's a calling, a way of life, and, for many of us, a career that stretches over decades. After 35 years behind the wheel, and with my 40th anniversary in sight, I’ve had the privilege of seeing it all: the growth of children, the evolution of the school system, and the challenges that come with keeping our kids safe on the roads. However, like all good things, there comes a time when the road ahead starts to feel a little different.
When I first started driving a school bus, I never imagined I’d be in the seat for as long as I have. At the time, I was just looking for a steady job that allowed me to serve my community, and driving seemed like a great fit. Little did I know, it would become a lifelong career.
For 25 years, I drove through snow, rain, and heat waves. I watched kids grow from wide-eyed kindergartners into teenagers who were ready to take on the world. The routine of picking up and dropping off students, the friendly smiles, and the daily exchanges became my rhythm. But it wasn’t just about the kids—it was also about the connection I had with fellow drivers, teachers, and parents. We were all part of the same mission: to keep our children safe and ensure they had a good start to their school day.
By the time I reached 34 years on the job, my back started to take a toll. The long hours of sitting in the bus, combined with the constant need to be alert and ready for action, began to wear me down. Unfortunately, I had to step away from driving full-time after 25 years, though I still continued to work in various other roles within the system for a few more years. Had I not had to stop due to health issues, I would have hit the 34-year mark this year — an achievement I’m proud of.
But as I reflect on my years behind the wheel, I can’t help but notice how much has changed in the world of school transportation.
One of the hardest parts of my job today is the rising danger of rude and reckless drivers on the road. Drivers who don’t stop for school buses, who speed around our vehicles while we’re picking up children, or who simply aren’t paying attention create a hazardous environment. These reckless behaviors are frustrating and frightening. It seems like every year, more drivers are becoming less respectful of the rules of the road, and the consequences are becoming more severe.
There’s nothing more terrifying than watching a car whiz by while children are crossing the street in front of you. I’ve seen too many close calls, and each one takes a toll on your peace of mind. As a driver, it’s my responsibility to keep kids safe, but I need the cooperation of every driver on the road. Sadly, that cooperation seems to be diminishing.
Despite the challenges, there’s something deeply rewarding about the work. It’s the moments when a child waves goodbye with a smile or says "thank you" as they exit the bus. It’s the satisfaction of knowing that I’ve played a small part in a child’s day, helping them get to school safely and reliably. That sense of purpose is what kept me going for as long as I did, and it’s what kept many of my colleagues going as well.
However, I’m not sure how much longer I’ll be able to endure the constant stress of navigating dangerous drivers and dealing with the physical toll on my body. After seven years of driving with increasing frustration, I’m starting to think that it might be time for me to retire once and for all. It’s not just the back pain anymore, but the emotional toll of worrying for my passengers every time I turn the key.
As I prepare to retire fully after a 42-year career, I have mixed feelings. I’m proud of the work I’ve done and the impact I’ve made, but I’m also concerned for the future of school bus drivers. Will future generations face the same dangers? Will they have the same opportunities to make a difference in the lives of children?
To the younger drivers out there, my advice is this: Stay safe, stay focused, and remember why you chose this profession in the first place. The kids, the families, and the community need you. Just remember to take care of yourself, too.
And to all the drivers on the road: Please, for the sake of our kids, remember to slow down when you see a school bus. The life you save might just be the one sitting in the seat next to you.
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