TPS Looking To Fill Bus Driver Shortage

Tulsa Public Schools is looking for bus drivers to fill routes for this school year. They say they still need to fill about 20 spots in order to make sure kids get to school on time.

Currently, some of the drivers, supervisors, engineers, and other administrators are picking up some extra shifts in order to make sure kids make it to school, but they are hoping people in the community will step up to help.

"The reward is something that comes from the heart and you can't put a price tag on that," said Bus Driver Misty Harding.

Misty has been driving a bus for Tulsa Public Schools for 8 years and says she loves watching the kids grow up in front of her eyes.

When they come to the bus, they're waving at me, I am waving at them and everybody is all smiles,” said Misty.

Right now, Tulsa Public Schools doesn't have enough bus drivers to fill all the routes across the district and they are having to use other staff to fill that void and pick up kids.

"We may have routes that may have to double up portions of other routes and they may run 10-15 minutes late, but we are doing the best we can to get them there on time," said Terminal Manager Carol Reese.

And some drivers, like Misty, are picking up extra hours because of the lack of employees.

"We all realize that its part of the job, sometimes we have to stay a little later," said Misty.

“Our main concern is getting all of our kids picked up and getting them to school in a safe and timely manner," said Reese.

In order to be a bus driver you have to pass a drug test, a background check, have your CDL drivers license and complete a month of training. But Misty says this is a great career if you are looking to make a difference in a child's life.

"I remember a lot of my teachers from school from this very day and know that they have made an impact on my life and I would like to be that person for these kids," said Misty

If you would like more information on how to apply to be a bus driver for Tulsa Public Schools, Click Here.