School bus drivers have a unique role in the school community, transporting students to school on a daily basis and ensuring their safety. However, school bus driver positions come with many advantages that may not be obvious at an initial glance. This article will discuss some of the great benefits school bus drivers enjoy, including a flexible schedule, health benefits, and frequent time off. Training for school bus drivers is also moderate, making it a great job to pursue. Read on to find out more about the advantages of being a school bus driver.
1. Flexible Schedule
School bus drivers typically have the flexible schedule of only driving early morning and late afternoon hours. This makes it a great job for those who want to enjoy evenings away from work, as well as time off in the middle of the day. However, some school bus drivers also do pickups and drop-offs throughout the day or drive for after-school activities and practices. This means that the job has the potential to be part-time or full-time, depending on how many hours the driver wants to work each week.
2. Benefits
The benefits of being a school bus driver vary between different districts, but many include vacation and sick time, health insurance for those who are full-time, and retirement plans. Some also include vision and dental insurance, life insurance, and disability insurance. Steady income and pay is also a huge plus. In addition to benefits, many school bus drivers receive discounts on certain items such as gas or oil changes.
3. Summer and Holidays Off
School bus drivers are typically off when the kids are out of school. This means that drivers will have summers off, as well as extended breaks around the holidays, in addition to occasional three and four-day weekends throughout the year. However, depending on where you live, there may still be work for those who don't want summers off since some children attend summer school.
4. Moderate Training and Job Requirements
Getting started as a school bus driver is relatively easy. Most states require you to have a valid Commercial Driver’s License, but there typically is no college education requirement. This means there are benefits to avoiding student loans and other costs associated with a traditional four-year degree. In addition, the on-the-job training is relatively short-term, allowing some drivers to get started working sooner than with other jobs. License updates are also needed every few years, but certain softwares, such as EZDistrict, can help to keep track of this for you and for the district you work for.
5. Making a Difference in Kids’ Lives
Last, but certainly not least, being a school bus driver allows you to make a difference in the community and with the kids that you drive. You get to be an integral part of their daily lives throughout the year, with some drivers driving the same routes year after year. This is truly one of the most rewarding aspects of being a school bus driver, as you make a positive impact on the lives of those around you.
Overall, being a school bus driver can be an enjoyable and rewarding job that offers flexible hours, good benefits and time off throughout the year. With dedication and a good attitude, drivers also make a difference in kids’ lives every day and make sure they get to school safely. They serve as role models, friends, and make a lasting impact on the community. If you’re interested in becoming a school bus driver, make sure to research the job requirements in your area so you can make an informed decision.
