ATLANTA — Some metro Atlanta school districts continue to struggle to fill vacant bus driver slots, while others have overcome the issue that has plagued them for years.
Atlanta Public Schools is currently looking for 32 drivers. The district’s transportation director says there are enough drivers to fill every route. The additional drivers are needed to fill in when regular drivers are off.
“You learn all walks,” said Janice Birt, who has been an APS driver since 1988. “Building relationships, listening to the children. It can get emotional with some of the kids and their situations. I love this job.”
Her testimony is part of the district’s effort to attract more drivers.
The situation is more challenging in Fulton County, where there are 133 driver vacancies. The district says it is working to ensure all routes are covered using “combination routes and double runs as necessary.”
DeKalb is currently short 75 bus drivers. Cherokee, Gwinnett, and Clayton counties say they’re opening school with a full staff.
The head of recruiting at APS says financial incentives for drivers have made her job easier.
At APS, several drivers are in training to fill empty spots.
“We’re trending high,” said Transportation Director John Franklin. “We’re getting a whole new bumper crop of bus drivers who are enjoying the work.”
“A great turnout of candidates and interest at hiring events, and we’re also seeing individuals looking for longevity within the role,” said Tiffany Adams of APS.
As she begins her 36th year behind the wheel, Janice Birt knows she can’t do this forever. Still, she begins this year with the same enthusiasm she had on day one.