COMMUNITIES ACROSS the nation are grappling with a severe shortage of school bus drivers — a crisis that has deepened in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here in Tennessee, the situation is no different, and Gov. Bill Lee and state officials are working to find solutions. Measures such as raising pay, offering sign-on bonuses, more flexible schedules, raising awareness of the shortage, and a possible reduction in the age requirement from 25 to 21 are being implemented, but locally, several positions remain unfilled.
Since the 1930s, parents have depended on drivers like Billie Jo Juarez to transport their children to school safely. Juarez has lived in Bedford County for 38 years and has spent the last 25 years driving a school bus. She is a mom to four grown children and is also very involved with her 14 grandchildren. Whether in soccer, basketball, wrestling, or cheerleading competitions, Juarez is always on the sidelines, rooting for their success.
For the last two years, Juarez has been nominated as “Bus Driver of the Year” by her peers because — just as she roots for the success of her grandchildren — she roots for the success of other bus drivers and is quick to offer assistance whenever she is needed.
“I love helping my co-workers, so I hardly ever say ‘no’ when they ask me to fill in for them. Both times that I was nominated, I was thrilled. It makes me proud to work with such great people in Bedford County. I enjoy teaching new people how to do this job that I love. I helped our retired trainer many times with our new employees,” said Juarez.
As a full-time substitute, over the years she has driven every route inside the city limits. For the last six years, she was assigned to a midday route for students with disabilities, but was recently promoted to a position that excites her: training new drivers.
“When you drive a bus, no two days are ever the same, so it’s never boring. Call me if you would like to drive for Bedford County. We are all here to help you. There is a lot to learn, and you can do it!” said Juarez.
Qualified applicants are required to pass a Department of Transportation physical and a background check. Once approved, applicants train with Juarez and get paid while training. Because training is provided, a commercial driver’s license or prior experience isn’t necessary.
Juarez said, “These positions are ideal for grandparents, stay-at-home moms and dads, and anyone who wants to be at home with their kids on their days off.”
Superintendent of Schools Tammy Garrett said, “When we think of the backbone of a successful public school system, bus drivers often go unnoticed.
However, they play a vital role as caretakers, role models, and the first point of contact many students have with the school each day. They work early mornings; they sometimes face long hours, and they have significant responsibilities. Our bus drivers truly are unsung heroes!”
Juarez said, “My goal is for every bus to have a driver. This is a very rewarding job because we watch as the kids grow up, graduate, and become part of society. We are the first person students see in the morning and the last person they see at the end of each school day. I love the kids, and I love to drive. You have to like kids to do this job, and you must have the attitude of ‘How would I want someone to treat my child?’ I treat each of them like they are my own.” GN
