Bus Driver

School Bus Driver

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:

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.