Bus Driver Has Change of Heart

Williamson County Schools

 

school headerAmid the shortage of bus drivers for Williamson County Schools (WCS), we have good news to share with you. Jerry Martin, the WCS bus driver, who shared his story with us last week has decided to stay with WCS as a bus driver.

Bus Driver Regretfully Departs Amid Shortage

Jerry Martin is a Williamson County native who graduated from Fairview High School. Currently retired from Yellow Freight, he chose to work with Williamson County Schools as a bus driver for the past six years. Over the last two years, he explained that WCS has cut 1.5 hours per day of pay. Last year, his pay was cut by 1 hour a day which is the equivalent of $3,000 a year. And in the current school year, 1/2 hour a day was cut, equaling $1,500 a year. In total, Martin receives $4,500 less per year than he did two years ago.

When we spoke to Martin about continuing to work with Williamson County Schools as a bus driver, he told us he has committed to stay until Christmas. He explained his allotted time for his route and other tasks (such as cleaning the bus, checking the bus, etc…) has been extended by 45 minutes. Currently, WCS has a shortage of 17 bus drivers.

In a statement Dr. Looney made to Williamson Source he states that there are “8 drivers in training and [they are] are currently interviewing for a new director.”

As these new drivers are trained it will certainly help to alleviate the current shortage and hopefully lessen the double bus routes currently run by other drivers.

In regards to why Martin chose to stay, he said:

“Mostly it is due to the WCS parents and children. My children attended WCS schools and the bus greatly benefitted my family. The WCS parents have worked so hard for me. They have been so gracious to me and for that I am very thankful.”

3 Obstacles Faced by WCS Transportation Director

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