Bus Driver Job Description
Blytheville School District

Position Title: Bus Driver
Department: Transportation
Reports To: Transportation Coordinator

Job Summary

The Bus Driver is responsible for safely transporting students to and from school, field trips, and other school-related activities. This position requires strict adherence to traffic laws, district policies, and safety regulations to ensure the safety of all passengers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Safely operate a school bus along designated routes and ensure timely pick-up and drop-off of students.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the bus, checking fuel, oil, brakes, lights, tires, and other equipment.
• Maintain order and discipline on the bus, ensuring that students follow safety protocols.
• Adhere to district bus schedules and adjust routes as necessary based on road conditions, detours, or emergencies.
• Report any accidents, vehicle malfunctions, or traffic violations to the Transportation Coordinator immediately.
• Follow all district policies, including bus driver guidelines on radio communication, prohibited use of cell phones, and maintaining a seating chart for students.
• Ensure bus cleanliness by conducting regular cleaning and ensuring no hazardous objects are left behind.
• Assist students with boarding, especially those with special needs, ensuring compliance with ADA regulations if applicable.
• Complete and submit required reports, including timesheets, route documentation, and incident reports.
• Attend mandatory safety and training sessions as required by the district.

Qualifications:

• Minimum Age: 21 years old.
• License: Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with School Bus (S) and Passenger (P) endorsements.
• Experience: Previous experience as a bus driver preferred but not required; district provides training.
• Physical Ability: Ability to sit for long periods, perform routine vehicle checks, and assist students in case of emergency evacuations.
• Background Check: Must pass a criminal background check and drug screening.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of traffic laws and school bus safety procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, and school personnel.
• Demonstrate patience, responsibility, and a strong sense of safety.
• Ability to handle emergencies and maintain control in stressful situations.
• Good decision-making skills, especially in handling weather, road conditions, and student behavior.

Working Conditions:

• Must be available to work early morning and afternoon shifts, with occasional field trips or special events requiring extended hours.
• Exposure to various weather conditions while driving and assisting students in boarding and exiting the bus.
• Physical demands include sitting for extended periods, climbing steps, and potentially lifting or assisting students.

Employment Terms:

• Contract Hours: Varies based on route assignments (refer to contracted hours schedule).
• Work Year: Follows the school calendar, with work days being the same as student school days.

• The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills that may be required.