WATCH: Why Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties Are Hiring Bus Drivers
In recent months, both Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties have faced a significant challenge: a shortage of bus drivers. This shortage has led to delays in transportation services, affecting students’ punctuality and causing administrative staff to step in as drivers. As the demand for reliable school transportation continues to grow, both counties are actively seeking solutions to this pressing issue.
The Impact of the Driver Shortage
The Escambia County School District (ECSD) has reported an alarming shortfall of bus drivers, currently eight drivers short of the necessary staffing levels to manage daily routes effectively. This shortage has resulted in an increase in late buses, which in turn has led to students arriving late for school. Steve Harrell, the ECSD Director of Transportation, explained that the situation has forced drivers to take on double routes or "double backs," where one driver completes a route and then returns to pick up another group of students.
The repercussions of this shortage extend beyond mere tardiness; they also place a strain on the transportation department. With route managers sometimes having to drive buses, the administrative side of the operation becomes understaffed, complicating an already challenging situation. Harrell noted, "We work some long hours around here to make up for those things, and we do our best to keep the train rolling with as little complication as possible."
Ongoing Recruitment Efforts
ECSD Superintendent Malcolm Thomas emphasized that the district is continuously working to hire and retain new drivers. However, the process is not as simple as it may seem. Potential drivers must pass a federal Department of Transportation medical exam and complete a 40-hour training program before they can take to the roads. "You can’t just walk into the office and say, ‘I’d like to drive the bus tomorrow,’" Thomas remarked.
A nationwide study conducted by the National Association for Pupil Transportation in 2017 revealed that 90% of participating districts were experiencing some level of driver shortage. Factors contributing to this issue include pay rates, benefits, and the requirements for obtaining a commercial driver’s license. In Escambia County, strict hiring guidelines further complicate recruitment efforts, as candidates must pass background checks and maintain a clean driving record.
The Current State of Hiring
Despite the challenges, the ECSD is making progress. The district’s target of hiring eight additional drivers has decreased from the previous need for 11, thanks to three new hires who will begin after the holiday break. Harrell noted that having eight additional drivers would allow the district to run daily operations smoothly and maintain a pool of substitute drivers for unforeseen circumstances.
In Santa Rosa County, the situation is somewhat less dire. Student Transportation of America (STA), which took over transportation duties in July, currently employs 198 drivers to cover an average of 193 routes. While the company is actively recruiting, they are also in the process of training new drivers, with eight currently undergoing behind-the-wheel training and two preparing for CDL testing.
Community Involvement and Recruitment Strategies
Both counties are exploring various avenues to attract new drivers. Thomas mentioned that the district is constantly advertising through local media and social media platforms, as well as hosting job fairs. The pay for bus drivers varies by county, with STA offering wages ranging from $12.75 to $17.41 per hour, while Escambia County starts at $11.52 per hour, with periodic raises based on tenure.
Harrell pointed out that military spouses represent an untapped resource for recruitment. "If you’re only going to be here for a few years, why not get the training, become a bus driver, and then as your spouse moves across the country, you’re still qualified to drive a bus there or some other type of commercial vehicle?" he suggested. Additionally, stay-at-home parents and retirees are seen as ideal candidates for these positions, as they often have the flexibility to work during school hours.
The Importance of the Role
Driving a school bus is not just a job; it’s a vital community service. Denis Gallagher Jr., vice president of operations for STA’s southeast region, emphasized the importance of the role, stating, "It takes a special person to be a bus driver; it’s really someone who has a passion for being involved in the community." He noted that for parents, understanding the obligation to transport children safely to and from school is paramount.
How to Apply
For those interested in becoming a bus driver, the application process is straightforward. In Santa Rosa County, applicants can fill out online forms on the STA website. In Escambia County, interested individuals can apply in person at the transportation office or visit the district’s website for more information.
As both counties continue to grapple with the bus driver shortage, their commitment to finding solutions remains steadfast. With ongoing recruitment efforts and community involvement, there is hope for a more reliable transportation system for students in the future.