Bus Driver Shortage – Delve into Ohio’s Survey Results
Over half of Ohio’s school districts recently participated in a survey conducted by The Ohio Association of Pupil Transportation (OAPT). The results found that more than 40% of districts cancel bus routes regularly because of a lack of drivers. Retirements and a deficit in bus aides for children with special needs are two factors contributing to the bus driver shortage.
Based on the survey results, other top contributing factors include:
Pay rate
Number of hours
Ability to earn benefits
Split shift
However, there are strategies that districts are implementing to maintain competitive wage and benefit offerings and to keep drivers as busy as possible, especially when school is in session. Getting the message about the benefits of this important position is key for communities. Communication is critical, especially to those who are looking for ways to help their local schools.
Hear more about the results in this recent discussion on WVXU’s Cincinnati Edition with Dave Oglesby, second vice president of OAPT, and Eric Sotzing, business manager at Middletown City Schools.
Other suggested resources:
Classified Staff Recruitment Strategies – HCRC resource
Fort Wayne Community Schools – Bus Driver Video
Fairland Local Schools – interview with Barb Ward, bus driver
Tuscaloosa City Schools – interview with Bonita, small business owner and bus driver
“There are no unimportant jobs”: This retired FBI boss became a school bus driver amid shortage, Click here for this CBS News story with video