About the Role
Drivers will Safely operate a school bus, adhering to all traffic laws and regulations, and following established routes and schedules. Ensure the safety and well-being of students while they are on the bus. This includes maintaining order, enforcing safety rules, and addressing any disciplinary issues as needed.
Conduct a thorough pre-trip inspection of the school bus to check for mechanical issues, ensure all safety equipment is in working order, and confirm that the bus is clean and ready for use. Familiarize yourself with the designated bus routes, stops, and schedules, and make necessary adjustments in cases of road closures, traffic, or weather-related issues. Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including evacuations, accidents, and medical incidents, and follow established protocols to ensure the safety of students.
Maintain open and effective communication with school staff, parents, and students, addressing any concerns or issues promptly and professionally. Maintain accurate records, including daily mileage, fuel consumption, and incident reports. Keep records of student ridership and maintain a list of authorized riders. Attend and participate in ongoing training and professional development sessions, including safety training and refresher courses. Ensure that safety equipment such as first-aid kits, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits are in good working condition. Report any mechanical issues or maintenance needs promptly, and keep the school bus clean and in compliance with state and federal regulations.
Additionally, drivers may be required to:
Collaborate with school officials to plan and modify bus routes as needed to optimize efficiency and accommodate changes in student enrollment or locations.
Report traffic incidents or accidents involving the school bus to the appropriate authorities, such as law enforcement and school administration, and complete incident reports as necessary.
Assist in training and mentoring new school bus drivers, sharing knowledge and experience to ensure they adhere to safety standards and best practices.
Transport students to extracurricular activities and field trips, ensuring they are accounted for and following safety protocols during off-campus excursions.
Conduct periodic emergency evacuation drills with students to ensure they are familiar with emergency procedures.
Operate and maintain communication equipment on the bus, such as two-way radios, for effective communication with school staff and transportation authorities.
Assist in emergency response efforts within the school, including acting as a backup driver for other routes during driver shortages or emergencies.
Requirements
School bus drivers play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of students, and they are expected to prioritize safety and professionalism at all times. School bus drivers are responsible for safely transporting students to and from school, ensuring their well-being during the journey, and maintaining the school bus in a safe and functional condition. School bus drivers typically work on a set schedule that aligns with school hours and may include morning and afternoon shifts. The job may involve exposure to various weather conditions. School bus drivers may need to assist students with disabilities in boarding and disembarking from the bus.
Valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with appropriate endorsements for school bus operation.
Clean driving record with no major traffic violations.
Completion of a school bus driver training program (varies by state).
Ability to pass background checks and drug screenings.
Good communication and interpersonal skills.
Patience, reliability, and a strong sense of responsibility.
Knowledge of local traffic laws and regulations.
Ability to maintain composure in stressful situations.
Remain centered on the school's mission and vision.
Perform all other duties as assigned by supervisor.
About the Company
Fine Arts Preparatory School is an arts-infused public charter school located in the heart of the piedmont of South Carolina. Starting in Kindergarten, the school allows matriculation through high school, offering programming that leads to a South Carolina high school diploma. The school supports and develop people prepared to be productive college and career-ready citizens from early childhood.
We are established as a full-service community hub collaborating to build harmony, equality, and well-being. We believe that the visual and performing arts paired with nature play and experiential learning will cultivate creative, innovative, and resilient people prepared to tackle college and careers alongside real-life issues. Fine Arts Preparatory School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.