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The driver shortage isn't getting any better, which means your school bus transportation management policies need to put a high priority on morale. You need to keep your drivers happy, so they don't look elsewhere - otherwise it could take months to find a replacement.
BusBoss has a long history helping districts overcome transportation challenges, and we have a few tips!
How Can You Keep Your Driver Relationships Positive?
1 - Better pay / benefits
We realize this may not be viable for every district, but fundamentally, pay and bennies are one of the biggest reasons school bus drivers walk away from the field. If it's possible to pay them more, make it happen. You might even lure drivers away from other districts.
2 - Honor your best drivers
Bus drivers often feel overlooked and put-upon, so look for ways to recognize their contributions to your district. Honors, awards, and celebratory dinners are all good ways to make them feel special. Or do occasional public events where you highlight the good they do.
3 - Back them up in disputes
Drivers increasingly have to deal with hostile parents, which can be extremely stressful. Let them know that you will be there for them, and have their back if a parent or other outside figure causes problems.
4 - Reduce their burden with tech investments
Technology can make your drivers' lives easier. For example, student ID scanning systems make it much easier for them to do head-counts and keep track of ridership. Or interior cameras piped to a dashboard tablet allows them to watch the students without turning around. Reducing burdens on your drivers will inherently improve morale.
5 - Maintain clear lines of communication
Always have pipelines for drivers to express their ideas or concerns, and follow up on their comments. Don't let your drivers feel like they're out of the loop. They'll often have very useful ideas for improving efficiency or student safety.
6 - Make it clear their jobs are safe
These are uncertain times for a lot of people, and worries about layoffs are common. If you hear rumors regarding cutbacks, be sure to officially quash them, so your drivers don't get nervous.
BusBoss wants your school bus transportation system to excel! From consulting on driver morale issues, to finding affordable technology solutions to your problems, we can help. Contact us to learn more.
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PRESIDENT
Sonia has been involved with BusBoss since the late 1990’s, and has personally overseen many projects for various customers ranging from large urban and suburban districts to smaller rural school districts from all over the country.
(484) 941-0820