MANOR, Texas (KXAN) — It’s a problem nationwide and right here in central Texas — the need for more bus drivers. The Manor Independent School District is putting out the call for more drivers while also being creative to get people to apply.
“All the routes are going out,” said Transportation Director Fernanda Travagliante.
In all, Manor ISD said it needs about ten drivers, but would like more than that to make sure it has people able to cover shifts of those who might call out sick or be on vacation.
“We’re picking up students in the district regardless of the [driver] shortage, but we are having to get creative,” Travagliante explained.
That creativity includes making many drivers double up on routes.
“We’re asking drivers to do two elementary schools, or two middle schools or two high school runs,” she said.
The district understands that it can be frustrating for parents, since it can also mean delays and longer rides for some kids.
The district has a transportation dashboard where parents can check where buses are in real-time online.
Pay for drivers begins at $23.50 an hour. Another $2 an hour is added as an attendance bonus. The district explains it’s an incentive to get people to come to work.
Training can take around three months if you do not have your Commercial Driver License (CDL). If you do, the process to get licensed to drive a school bus takes around three weeks, the district said.
If you’re interested in applying, details are available on the district’s website.
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