A School Bus Driver Appreciation Week Story

Wednesday I had the opportunity to visit Salem Elementary with State Superintendent Mark Johnson to thank the school bus drivers there for everything they do. One moment stood out for me, which was the time I got to spend talking with James Beckwith. He is one of a fantastic group of school bus drivers at the school and so I must share the story. I hope that there are thousands more wonderful stories about school bus drivers across the state.

As James’ bus was pulling in, the assistant principal, Molly Miller, said that they absolutely love him, and relayed to us some of the many reasons why. Later, James talked with me about what works for managing his kids and how important they are to him.  These two conversations made it clear that James epitomizes how all adults in a child’s life can make a huge difference and how school bus drivers can provide far more than a safe ride to school.

James knows the students names and greets them with a smile each day. He asks students about their projects and recognizes their successes. Perhaps most importantly of all however, he knows when something is wrong, when they are sad, and he lifts their spirits. The supervisor for the region James Hardy also said that it doesn’t stop there; that James tries to spread that joy to the other staff as well, and to help his fellow bus drivers.

The moment that drove it home however was when Molly told me that one week when James was out sick a couple days, the school received calls from concerned parents wanting to check on him, to make sure he was ok, and asking when he would be back on the bus. That is a testament to how impactful one person can be in the lives of others, and that one of those forces for good is Mr. James Beckwith.

Just like a great teacher, a great bus driver can make a real difference. Please thank your bus drivers for being a positive force in children’s lives.

A big thank you from me to all the bus drivers and those who support them. 

Happy Love the Bus Month and School Bus Driver Appreciation Week.

Kevin Harrison

Section Chief

NC DPI – Transportation Services

Kevin.Harrison@dpi.nc.gov

919-807-3579