Wisconsin District Holds School Bus Test Drive Event

July 17, 2024

The school bus driver shortage is causing students nationwide to be late to class. Bell time changes and improved route are potential solutions.

The Waukesha School District in Wisconsin organized an event last Thursday in hopes of attracting new school bus drivers, reported Fox News.

The school district and contractor First Student invited local community members to drive a bus around the North High School parking lot. The aim was to prove a big bus is “no big deal” while filling an urgent need.

According to the news report, the test was just the start and organizers hope it will prompt people to apply for open jobs.

“We believe that if people get out, take the opportunity to drive the bus, they really are going to find out it’s not a big deal to drive” said Jon Sablich, the First Student local manager.

Last year, the district reportedly began the school year with no bus drivers for nine of the district routes, leaving parents and students scrambling. Progress was made this fall when First student has hired around 58 drivers, but the company still needs 20 more.

The school district is encouraging parents to have their own backup plan, in case no other applicants get on board.

According to the article, First Student is trying to attract applicants with $4,000 signing bonuses and a guaranteed 25 hours per week. Wages start at $24 per hour.