What Do School Bus Drivers Do for Income in the Summer?

Year-Round Pay Options

Some school districts pay bus drivers year-round by spreading their annual salary across 12 months. This approach ensures consistent paychecks even when school is out of session. Drivers who have this arrangement often appreciate the financial stability it provides.

Alternatively, some districts offer the option to set aside a portion of each paycheck during the school year to create a "balloon check" — a larger payout at the end of the academic year to cover summer expenses. If your district doesn't offer this option, you can create a similar savings plan yourself by setting aside money from each paycheck into a dedicated savings account.

Unemployment Benefits

For drivers working in districts that don't provide year-round pay, unemployment benefits can be a temporary financial solution. Some school bus companies and districts allow drivers to file for unemployment during summer breaks. Be sure to check local regulations and company policies to determine if this is an option for you.

Summer Work Opportunities

Many bus drivers choose to take on summer jobs to supplement their income. Here are some popular choices:

1. Summer School Routes: Many districts run summer school programs, providing opportunities for bus drivers to continue working their regular job in a reduced capacity.
   
   
2. Bus Cleaning and Maintenance: Some drivers work full-time cleaning and maintaining buses, which may include deep cleaning interiors, washing exteriors, and performing minor repairs.
   
   
3. Tour and Charter Driving: Drivers often find work with private charter companies, tour buses, or shuttle services, providing transportation for events, camps, and sightseeing tours.
   
   
4. Part-Time Jobs: Many drivers pick up seasonal work, including positions at retail stores, golf courses, landscaping companies, or summer camps.
   
   
5. Delivery and Rideshare Services: Flexible gigs like DoorDash, Uber, and Amazon deliveries can provide additional income while allowing drivers to set their own schedules.
   
   
6. Teaching or Coaching: Drivers with teaching or coaching experience can find part-time work at community centers, daycares, or summer sports programs.
   
   
7. Skilled Labor and Odd Jobs: Opportunities like construction work, pool maintenance, and lawn care provide steady summer employment for drivers with the right skills.
   
   

Creative Alternatives

Some drivers choose unique paths to keep busy and earn extra money. Ideas include:

• Offering private driving services for special events.
  
  
• Selling items online through platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
  
  
• Teaching fitness or art classes, such as yoga or painting workshops.
  
  
• Working on personal projects, such as writing a book or starting a side business.

Whether your district offers year-round pay, unemployment options, or summer school routes, school bus drivers have plenty of ways to maintain income during the summer months. From flexible part-time jobs to seasonal work and personal ventures, the possibilities are endless. With some planning, you can make the summer both productive and rewarding while preparing for the return to your school bus routes in the fall.