Have you ever wondered what a school bus driver does when school is out for summer? Bus drivers in Maple Grove have extremely flexible hours. They often work split shifts starting around 6am, and ending close to 5pm. Even more appealing, they have the option to take the summer off. 

Having the option not to work in the summer could be perfect for some individuals. For instance, college students who go back home, retirees who like to travel, and parents with kids home for the summer. However, not all bus drivers fit these personas. Begging the question: what do drivers do for work in the summer? Most drivers do one of the following during the summer: 

Drive Summer School or Charter Routes

Drivers are able to take routes for summer school. They also have options to drive for sports teams, summer camps or church groups. The number of hours worked may not be as high as when school is in session, but that leaves time to enjoy summer.

Training  

If recruiting efforts go as planned, drivers who train focus on training during the summer. Typically additional classes  are offered and trainers usually have more than one trainee at a time.

Help Around the Terminal

A school bus terminal is quiet during the summer, but that doesn't mean no one is working. Summer is the time to plan, prep, clean and execute work projects, such as installing cameras on the buses, implementing a new App, cleaning the garage, revising the Handbook or training manual and even outdoor landscaping. 

Bus Cleaning

During the summer every school bus is deep cleaned. This isn’t your basic sanitize, wipe and sweep. Summer bus cleaning is detailing the entire bus. Every nook and cranny of every bus is touched. It generally takes 3-4 hours per bus.

Help with Marketing

School bus companies recruit heavily for new drivers in the summer. Some drivers help with this by attending hiring fairs, handing out flyers, delivering door hangers, placing banners or putting out yard signs. Another big piece of marketing  during the summer is participating in parades. Generally, a handful of drivers participate in parades by promoting the company and recruiting new drivers.

Second Job

A lot of drivers pick up a second job for the summer. Retail and service industries are popular choices that give drivers the flexibility to return to work once schools are back in session.

Take the summer off

Being a school bus driver is perfect for retirees because it gives them something to do during the school year and allows them to fully relax during the summer. Most retired drivers like to go on vacation  or explore their hobbies. Parents enjoy taking time off for their children.

School bus driver's summer plans are unique to the individual. Drivers cherish that freedom. While flexible schedules are a major benefit of becoming a school bus driver, it's not the only thing that makes the job appealing. Due to the lack of drivers, wages are competitive with sign on bonuses available. Companies such as Northstar Bus Lines and American Student Transportation generally offer paid training and will train on site. You also have the ability to bring your children to work with you. If you would like more information on how to become a school bus driver, check out our application.