School Bus Drivers: Retaining Good Drivers

Retaining good school bus drivers continues to be an issue for transportation departments nationwide.  Districts that offer competitive salaries as well as health and retirement benefits find it a lot easier to retain drivers.  However, this may be difficult for some districts that are faced with limiting budgets.  In addition to paying drivers a decent wage, they also need to provide enough working hours, ongoing training and create a supportive working environment.

After an individual is hired, they need to be given the support and training necessary to encourage them to stay.  Supervisors need to check in and monitor how drivers are doing on a continuous basis.  If a driver is not happy then they will know in advance and have the opportunity to resolve the issue before it is too late.  It would also be beneficial to have regular scheduled staff meetings to keep everyone updated on what is going on in the department as well as give drivers an opportunity for their voices to be heard. 

Districts have to be willing to do what is necessary to create an atmosphere that is positive for drivers.  Fair and equal treatment of all employees must be a top priority.  There must be policies and procedures in place that are best for the overall department.  Those in leadership roles have to lead by example and set the tone. 

During training the transportation department must to be mindful that they are dealing with adult learners who bring with them many different life experiences.  They must respect the drivers time by keeping training concise, detailed and timely as possible without sacrificing quality training.  Having new drivers shadow and ride with other successful drivers during training will give them an opportunity to see examples of exemplary behavior and actions. 

Another way to retain drivers is to show appreciation throughout the year.  Departments can hold various types of appreciation events that allow drivers to be recognized for their hard work and contributions.  Drivers can be recognized for special distinctions such as perfect attendance. 

Offering bonuses is another effective method for rewarding drivers and retaining those drivers who perform well.  Transportation departments can offer bonuses for various things such as perfect attendance and accident free driving. 

When the vision and mission of the transportation department is clear then it is easier to get buy in from drivers.  They will begin to take ownership of their routes and buses to ensure smooth daily operations.  They will begin to adopt a sense of pride in their work.  They will focus on the importance of their job which is to transport students safely. 

Attracting and retaining school bus drivers is a common issue for transportation departments around the country.  Districts have to continue to find ways to encourage individuals to apply for school bus driver positions, once they are hired and trained they need to focus on keeping them.