Minneapolis School Bus Driver Insiders

Have you ever heard it takes a dedicated individual to drive a school bus? If not, I'm sure you find it hard to disagree. It's a job that requires an abundance of patience, customer service skills and on road perfection. Drivers participate in extensive training, follow numerous safety regulations and, more recently, all Covid -19 protocols. Still, it is one of the most rewarding jobs of all. 

At Northstar Bus Lines located in Maple Grove, MN, I had the chance to interview some veteran school bus drivers. One question I asked is why they chose to be a bus driver? The three most common responses are flexibility, money, and the kids they drive. 

Benefit 1- Flexibility

School bus drivers commonly work in the early morning to bring kids to school and in the late afternoon to bring them home. This split shift leaves a large gap in their daily schedules. It's this reason college students, at home parents, and retirees make perfect drivers. They work a few hours in the morning, break for a few hours and work a few hours in the afternoon. Also appealing, no nights and no weekends! When interviewing 7-year driving veteran, Rodney Williams he expressed, “...I get the freedom to be outside of the office.” Consider this the freedom to work a second job, take a class, take a nap, catch a movie, run some errands or be at home with the kids. The possibilities are unlimited.

Benefit 2 - Money

In recent years there has been a national school bus driver shortage. To combat this shortage, many companies have offered pay increases and hefty sign on bonuses to get drivers in the door. At Northstar Bus Lines, drivers have the potential to make up to $23 an hour as well as a sign on bonus up to $2000. The icing on the cake?  Weekly pay! Talk about a smooth transition for those on unemployment who are looking for jobs. 

Benefit 3 - The Children

School Bus drivers really do make a difference in our children's life. Don't just take my word for it, watch Curtis Jenkins' story as broadcast on CBS News.

Robin LaCasse, another Northstar Driver, has had the same bus route since she started 7 years ago. The best part of her day, “.....Getting to watch the kids grow.” Matt Schireiber who's been with the company for 7 years, also states it’s the children! Ironically while many would turn away from driving children, they seem to be one of the main reasons our school bus drivers stay.

If you like flexibility, need extra income and would enjoy working with children, being a school bus driver could be perfect for you. Northstar Bus Lines will help you become a school bus driver today. Take control of your own schedule and have the freedom to live your life while making competitive wages and a difference in a child's life. 

Apply today!