As the new school year approaches, the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) is facing a shortage of bus drivers, with 35 openings across its transportation zones. The district has a fleet of 231 buses that transport over 16,000 students daily, covering three million miles in a single school year.

• OCSD, which currently employs between 150 and 160 drivers, is actively recruiting to fill positions in its south, central, and north zones before classes resume on Aug. 12.

To attract new hires, the district is offering competitive pay and substantial sign-on bonuses. Starting pay for drivers with no experience is $16.57 per hour. New hires possessing a commercial driver’s license (CDL) can receive a total bonus of $2,400, paid in $600 installments at signing and at three, six, and nine months of employment. 

• Those without a CDL can earn a total bonus of $2,000, with $500 paid at signing and at the same intervals.

“Bus drivers are often the first and last school representatives students see each day, and they play a crucial role in shaping a positive start and end to our students’ school experiences,” said Jay McInnis, Transportation Director. “Their dedication and commitment ensure our students arrive safely, on time, and ready to learn. Their impact goes beyond transportation—they are mentors, guardians, and a reliable presence in the lives of our students.”

The school district provides comprehensive training for new drivers, including 44 hours of instruction. This consists of 20 hours in the classroom, 20 hours behind the wheel, and four additional hours with a trainer. For those hired without a CDL, the district covers the cost of obtaining the license.

Bryan Huffman, a newer driver, shared his experience: “I became a bus driver because I enjoy both working with kids and driving. I enjoy the ability to work driving around the community versus working in an office setting. I also enjoy the flexibility of the schedule versus a 9-5 job.”

The position offers several benefits, including paid medical and dental insurance for single coverage, a health reimbursement account, $25,000 in life insurance, and a vested retirement after eight years.

Leslie Bishop, a veteran driver with 24 years of experience, emphasized the rewarding nature of the job. “I started driving a bus when my children were younger, so I could enjoy summers with my children, go to more events with them, and have the schedule they were on,” Bishop said. “I enjoy driving a bus because I make an impact on children every day by showing them a safe way to school, by loving each and every student that steps on my bus, and by being someone they can talk to about anything.”

Bishop also highlighted the job’s benefits and personal fulfillment. She expressed enjoyment in watching students grow and meeting new families in the community. 

• She emphasized the value of the county-provided insurance, including dental and health care. For her, driving a bus has been life-changing, allowing her to make a positive impact on students daily while also being able to spend time with her children and grandchildren during school breaks.

Both drivers highlighted the job’s family-friendly schedule, which aligns with school holidays and summer breaks.

Those interested in applying can visit the district’s employment website at https://okaloosa.focusschoolsoftware.com/focus/jobs/#!Jobs and select one of the “Transportation” options under the School/Facility option.

“Bus drivers are the unsung heroes of our school district, ensuring that our kids start and end their days safely,” said Grant Meyer, Director 1 of School Operations. “Their dedication and care provide a strong foundation for our students’ success.”

As the district works to fill these crucial positions, officials hope these incentives and the opportunity to make a positive impact on students’ lives will attract new drivers to join their transportation team before the school year begins.