Key Responsibilities & Performance Expectations
- Safe Operation & Driving Standards
- Follow All Traffic Laws: Operate the school bus in strict compliance with all local, state, and federal traffic regulations, school board policies, and Department of Transportation (DOT) mandates.
- Route Adherence: Strictly follow prescribed routes and time schedules. Do not alter routes or stops without prior authorization from the transportation supervisor.
- Defensive Driving: Consistently practice defensive driving techniques to anticipate and avoid potential hazards under various weather and road conditions.
- Student Management & Safety Culture
- Maintain Discipline: Establish and maintain clear, fair student behavior expectations on the bus to ensure a safe and distraction-free driving environment. Report significant behavioral infractions to school administration using district-approved reporting procedures.
- Safety Meetings: Attend all mandatory, scheduled safety meetings, training sessions, and in-service workshops to stay sharp and aligned with district safety protocols.
- Emergency Readiness: Be prepared to execute emergency evacuation plans effectively if a crisis arises.
- Vehicle Maintenance & Cleanliness
- Maintain Cleanliness: Ensure the interior of the bus is swept, cleared of trash, and sanitized. Keep windows and mirrors clean for maximum visibility. Ensure the exterior of the bus is washed regularly.
- Pre/Post-Trip Inspections: Conduct thorough daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections (checking brakes, lights, tires, etc.) to ensure the mechanical integrity of the vehicle. Immediately report any mechanical defects or safety concerns to the maintenance staff.
- Child Check: Perform required post-route walk-throughs to ensure no students or personal items are left on the bus.
- Professional Communication & Professionalism
- Professional Interactions: Communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally with students, parents, district staff, and supervisors at all times.
- Positive Attitude: Maintain a welcoming, positive attitude that contributes to a supportive and safe environment for our students.
- Policy Compliance: Adhere to all school district policies, including confidentiality guidelines regarding student information.
Qualifications & Requirements Licensure
- Must possess a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a Passenger (P) endorsement (School Bus (S) endorsement may also be required depending on state regulations).
- Must maintain a clean driving record that meets district insurability standards.
- All bus drivers must be part of the drug-testing pool per state statute.
Credentials & Training
- Qualifications Currency: Stay strictly current on all physicals, background checks, and licensing requirements necessary to operate a school bus.
- District-Provided Training: Must successfully complete and maintain certifications in:
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- Defensive Driving Course (Fully provided and funded by the district)
- CPR / First Aid Certification (Fully provided and funded by the district)
Physical Demands
- Ability to sit for extended periods of time while driving.
- Sufficient vision and hearing to safely operate a commercial vehicle and monitor student behavior.
- Ability to pass a mandatory DOT physical exams and drug/alcohol screening
Salary Information:
Bus Drivers receive 2 hours per route (4 hours per day for full-time), 20 hours yearly for maintenance, and 15 hours yearly for safety meetings. Full-time drivers (both morning and afternoon routes) receive benefits at the same rate as other full-time classified employees. Part-time drivers (morning OR afternoon route) receive ½ benefits.