CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Emily Clark, principal at Norman Smith Elementary School, is addressing a critical bus driver shortage in Clarksville-Montgomery County Schools by becoming a certified bus driver.
According to a story on CMCSS’s website, Clark earned her certification in January after noticing that many of her students had to endure long wait times after school.
Over 20,000 students rely on school buses each day in Montgomery County, and driver shortages have necessitated altered or extended routes.
The COVID-19 pandemic has made these issues worse.
“It’s always sad when a substantial time has passed and our students are still in the hallway,” Clark told CMCSS.
With help from Student Transportation Manager Ron Garner, Clark began seeking her bus driver certification in October. Clark said the experience gave her “a whole new perspective on our district.”
Bus drivers wanted
CMCSS is seeking drivers to help alleviate the shortage. Clark told CMCSS she hopes her experience will motivate others to want to help.
“I would love to raise awareness in the community of the need for bus drivers. I hope we will have community members that want to make a positive connection with students and families,” Clark said.
According to a listing on the CMCSS website, bus drivers make $15.80 per hour and are considered full-time employees.
Applicants can also receive training through CMCSS in order to receive their certification as a bus driver. All school bus drivers must complete 20 hours of driving with no passengers before their final test.
CMCSS is holding a bus driver job fair at West Creek High School (1210 West Creek Coyote Trail) on Saturday, March 27, from 8:30 a.m. until noon.
Jennifer Johnson, a CMCSS bus driver, told CMCSS that her eight years behind the wheel have been a rewarding experience.
“It’s not a stress-free job. It’s promising and rewarding when you build relationships with the children,” Johnson said.
Correction: The bus driver job fair will be March 27. The article has been updated.