JACKSON – District officials announced they would be increasing the bus driver pay rate to $30 per hour as a means to combat their bus driver shortage that has created an unprecedented staffing crisis.
The shortage of bus drivers is not unique to Jackson but it has been a persistent problem for the school system’s transportation department.
Business Administrator Michelle Richardson explained that by adding this new enticement it would help address a problem that has existed for years. “If we can’t get students to school, they can’t learn – and our ability to do that consistently is at risk due to this crisis.’’
“This change will allow us to recruit and retain qualified, dedicated staff members who are vital to the operations of this district,” Richardson added.
The Board of Education passed a resolution approving this change at their February 16 meeting. The existing base rate was $22.67 per hour. The district’s goal was to create a competitive rate of pay to stabilize staffing levels and to provide competitive compensation.
The district is also looking to hire additional van aides and the salary for that position was also increased to $18.50 per hour.
“We needed to put ourselves in a position to replenish our staff to get back to a place where we can operate efficiently and consistently,’’ Board of Education President Michael Walsh said. “Our drivers love our students and take their responsibilities seriously, and we need to ensure that Jackson is a place that they want to work and to stay.’’
Drivers routinely need to cover double runs in one school, which results in both pickup and drop-off delays, and the district has had to limit runs for trips, athletics and activities. To correct this situation, the school district’s Transportation Department is seeking to add 30 drivers to alleviate such daily challenges and to meet the needs of the district.
Interim Director of Transportation Kristopher Soto described the situation saying, “it’s a scramble every single day, and on some days, it feels almost impossible to get every child where they need to be.
“We do our best every day, but we can only do so much with the numbers we have. Something has to change,’’ Soto said. He added that being a bus driver in the district has many advantages, including hours that are both guaranteed and flexible.
Soto noted that there are also opportunities for additional work on nights, weekends and summer for special trips and programs. “Our drivers make special connections that have long-lasting, positive impacts in their lives. It is a great job that really makes a difference. We hope people consider joining us so we can be in a better position to support our students.”
Those seeking information about the job, salary and requirements available can visit the school district website at jacksonsd.org/drivers or call the transportation department at 732-833-4614.
