A lack of bus drivers for the Christian County Public School District caused some afternoon routes to be canceled last month and prompted a public apology from Superintendent Chris Bentzel.
In an open letter to parents three weeks ago, Bentzel admitted CCPS is facing a “dire problem” with driver shortages. He said the bus garage is typically equipped to handle the nearly 90 routes within the district on a daily basis, but flu and other sickness-related absences stretched driver numbers “very thin.”
Bentzel said the school district is trying to solve the driver shortage in three phases.
click to download audioBentzel said he realizes the pay for bus drivers isn’t where it should be and is hoping signing bonuses and a salary increase for 2024-25 add to their applicant pool.
click to download audioHe added each bus route has a monitor along with a driver to keep an eye on student behavior. Bentzel said the bus fleet has also seen some technological upgrades.
click to download audioSeveral teachers, administrators, coaches, and staff have filled in as subs when possible, but even then, Bentzel said the number of substitute drivers isn’t enough in the afternoons because of extra trips such as athletics and field trips.
click to download audioBentzel said the application process for bus drivers is open and available on the school’s website.
click to download audioThe school district will be hosting a driver road-EO on Saturday, October 28 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Stadium of Champions. According to a release from the school district, people interested in becoming bus drivers will be able to ask questions about the job and test drive a school bus on a closed practice course.
Interested drivers must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license to participate in the road EO.
