In just a few weeks the well-known yellow buses will be traveling the many roads throughout Caldwell County as school resumes for another year.
The responsibility of transporting what is termed the “most precious cargo” is one that is on the mind of Caldwell County School Transportation Director Dustin Cash weeks before the wheels on the bus started turning. One major step is the annual 8-hour update that is required each year for local drivers before they can transport students once the school year beings. That update was held at the Fire Training Center on 62-West.
click to download audioTo drive a school bus in Kentucky a person must hold a Commercial Drivers License with a Passenger, Air Brake and School Bus Endorsements, those requirements are by Federal Regulations. They also have to obtain a certification given by the Kentucky State Board of Education which is offered by the local school system. To receive that training you must be hired by a local school district and successfully pass classes and tests given during a 30-hour course.
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Joy Cartwright explained that the 8-hour sessions give drivers updates on information and provide additional training. She added she never thought she would drive a school bus but really loves it.
click to download audioMark Faughn has also been driving for 12 years and after beginning driving found it had another calling for him. He feels the 8 hour updates are a good day for the drivers.
click to download audioCash is always looking for drivers and substitutes. He also sees a benefit to the job as making a difference in someone’s life.
click to download audioFull-time drivers receive health insurance and retirement in addition to their salary. Pre-employment requirements include a CDL physical, background check, drug & alcohol testing and no DUI conviction for the past 5 years. Drivers are also required to pass an annual physical and subject to random drug and alcohol testing. Caldwell County currently has 46 drivers including substitutes and runs 30 daily bus routes. For more information on becoming a driver contact Cash at 270-365-8000.
