Saying thank you to White County school bus drivers

Getting young students to class can be a hassle for busy parents, and that is where the bus driver has always shone.

For nearly a century, school buses have been one of the most efficient ways to assure as many students as possible can arrive to their classes on time. Because of this, April 22 is School Bus Driver Appreciation Day.

School Bus Driver Appreciation Day originated in California in 2009. It was already an informal celebration of the efforts of the drivers, but the California State Assembly decided to make it official. The rest of the country followed from that example, and the celebration of men and women often overlooked in the education system has continued since.

Whenever people talk about the school staff that takes care of the next generation, bus drivers are often left out of that conversation. However, those drivers see the same kids almost every day for potentially years, and they have a large effect on the growth of the children. Helping the children learn how to behave in a large, clustered environment is a valuable stage of development to help the kids operate responsibly and politely in society.

Randy Alley, director of transportation for White County Schools, believes the drivers in Sparta are some of the best one can ask for.

“I have very dedicated drivers,” Alley said. “Also, best mechanic fleet in the state, and they are all committed to it. Still always short drivers, and its hard to become one. That really shows how good these folks are. It’s kind of like a family.”

Bus drivers also undergo an immense amount of stress with their position. They must focus and give attention to the kids, but they also have a road that requires concentration first and foremost. Their rotating shift schedules, tight time schedules, and cramped cabin ergonomics makes their job one that is not built for everyone, yet drivers across America have put themselves in that situation for the children.

“By in large, the people in White County respect our drivers,” Alley said. “The work we do. Sometimes you get folks that don’t hold at the stop sign, but, for the most part, I am proud of our community. They’ve treated them all well. And you got to because there really just isn’t as many left.”

During School Bus Driver Appreciation Day, there are many ways to show gratitude toward those who bring the children to school. Whether it be through personal gifts to a bus driver, or simply giving thanks to drivers, it is important to praise them for the work they do.