Bus driver trainers in training

By Amy Wallot

A few weeks ago I received an email from Pupil Transportation Section Supervisor Elisa Hanley asking if I could come photograph the bus driver trainer program Vehicle at Speed. It sounded like an interesting opportunity, so of course I said yes.

The drivers I spoke with all had one thing in common, they loved driving the bus. For some, it was a second career after retirement and others a family affair. They smiled as they spoke about their affection for greeting the students every morning. A few even confessed they had never expected to like it as much as they do.

According to Hanley, to be a school bus instructor trainee a driver must complete 33 hours of training over a four-day course. The course includes classroom, track and road components. To become a driver trainer a driver must pass a teaching exercise,  a 100-question test and the track and road tests. Candidates must have two years of bus driver experience, be a state-certified Kentucky school bus driver and be nominated by their district.

There is always a need for school bus drivers. If you are interested in becoming one, contact your local or surrounding school districts to apply.