Solon City Schools is revving efforts to recruit new bus drivers with a unique approach: letting potential candidates test drive a school bus. Tomorrow, the district is rolling out its wheels for prospective drivers at the second annual "You’re In the Driver’s Seat" event, as reported by News 5 Cleveland. From 9 to 11 a.m. at Parkside Elementary School, individuals over the age of 21 who have a clean record can get a feel for what it's like to maneuver the "big monstrosity" of a school bus as described by veteran bus driver Colleen Hall, who also serves as an on-boarding instructor.
The initiative is a response to an ongoing nationwide shortage of school bus drivers that has impacted the district for years, and comes at a critical time with impending retirements as Solon City School District looks to train and certify candidates before the next school year the 25-year veteran Hall expressed the joy she finds in her role, saying, "It's really rewarding watching them (the kids) grow and seeing the things they accomplish through the years. And sometimes you have an impact on them," in a statement obtained by News 5 Cleveland. The event is a chance for would-be drivers to take the driver's seat and serves the logistical needs of transporting roughly 3,500 students and supporting after-school extracurricular activities.
According to Cleveland Jewish News, participants interested in the open house event can sign up via a provided link or walk in if slots are available, with the promise of flexible schedules, split shifts, paid training, and full-time benefits. The starting rate is enticing, at $19.77 an hour, with experienced drivers potentially earning up to $26.45 an hour. A further glimpse into the community shows that on the same day of the bus test drive, Solon High School is hosting its 12th annual Ethnic Expo to celebrate diversity and encourage inclusivity within the school community, demonstrated by student-led cultural exhibits and traditional foods, entertainment planned spans from ethnic dancers to henna art.
Recognizing the dire need for drivers to maintain service levels, the district is committing to providing all the necessary education and support for new hires, as pointed out in a Cleveland19 News article. For those with a current driver’s license and a sense of curiosity or a desire for a career pivot, the “You’re in the Driver’s Seat” event might be the perfect occasion to explore the roads less traveled and in doing so, keeping the lifelines of education and extracurricular excellence running smoothly for the students and families of Solon City Schools.
