Bus companies make back to school push for drivers

Описание: In just a few short weeks, big yellow school buses will be a common sight along city streets. But who exactly will be driving these buses is another question.
"Right now it's our biggest push," said Vanessa Morales, a field recruiter for First Student. "It usually takes about two to three weeks for the entire training to get you qualified and certified to be a school bus driver."
Between now and the start of the school year, Morales says she would like to hire 200 new drivers.
"This is ideal if you're retired or if you want to supplement your income," she said.
Yet, it's a recruiting push they have to make year after year.
"There is a shortage in drivers," Morales added.
One reason for that shortage is the intimidation factor of getting behind the wheel of a large vehicle. At several recruiting events this Saturday, First Student will try a new technique to ease the nerves of prospective drivers.
"So 'Big Bus, no Big Deal' is essentially just to get any potential candidate to get a feel of what it's like to drive the bus," Morales said. "We'll have trainers on-site. We'll have a course set."
The goal is to give people a taste of what it's like to be behind the wheel.
CCX News reporter Delane Cleveland gave driving a try for a few minutes around the First Student parking lot in Champlin Friday morning.
In the end, nobody died, and no vehicles sustained any damage.
The hope is that more people will go through the same experience on Saturday, Aug. 5 and eventually sign-on to become permanent employees.
"It's important to get our kids to school," Morales said. "It's important to have them be there on time."
Recruiting events are taking place at Park Center High School and at the First Student office in New Hope on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Prospective drivers have to be at least 21 years old with a valid driver's license. Wages start at around $16 an hour with a $1,500 sign-on bonus.
Delane Cleveland
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