Winona ISD Superintendent Is Driving a School Bus This Year
Winona ISD Superintendent Justin Cowart is driving a school bus route as the East Texas district faces a shortage of bus drivers. Winona ISD had 15 drivers last year but is starting the new school year with 12, according to KLTV. Cowart's decision brings the number of available drivers to 13.
Winona ISD Faces a Bus Driver Shortage
With the district short on drivers, Cowart has decided to take the wheel to help make sure students get to and from school safely and on time.
It was interesting to see the Winona ISD Facebook page highlight that teachers and principals have been stepping up like this for years.
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Why Is It So Difficult to Find School Bus Drivers?
Enrollment continues to rise in the district, but the limited hours required for bus drivers can make the positions difficult to fill, especially given the relatively low pay.
Winona ISD Maintenance and Custodial Director Ronnie Marsh has been a bus driver for more than two decades. He said the excitement on students' faces makes it worth it.
The district is also getting creative in its efforts to address the bus driver shortage, including combining bus routes.
In the end, the district is committed to making sure students can get to and from school safely so they can focus on their education.
Interested in Becoming a Winona ISD Bus Driver?
If you're interested in becoming a bus driver for Winona ISD, visit the district's website for more information.
When to Stop for School Bus Based on Road Type
Gallery Credit: TSM Lafayette
