Union Public Schools Offering $2,000 Signing Bonus for New Bus Drivers

Union Public Schools needs school bus drivers so badly, the district is ready to pay new drivers a signing bonus for the first time ever.

The district reports anyone who commits to the job for at least one year is eligible. Frank Brazwell has been on the job for nearly 26 years.

"Bus driving is highly rewarding if you like people," said Brazwell.

New, full-time drivers will receive a $2,0000 bonus, thanks to Vision 2025 money, according to the district.

"Two grand, come on!" Union Public Schools Director of Transportation Susa Pettit said.

New drivers will be paid for their training and can make about $12-$15 an hour. They'll also have full insurance benefits. Brazwell believes his career is about the difference he's making in his community.

"I like seeing young people excel, expand and grow," said Brazwell.

Pettit said the district has always had a shortage of drivers and usually gets by with subs.

"I started in 2005 and we have been short every day but one," Pettit said.

The district ended the school year in May with 18 fewer drivers than they'd like to have.

"When you're 18 drivers short, everyone's driving. I'm driving, all the mechanics are driving, all of our office staff is driving. We have people from other departments driving," said Pettit.

Right now, seven people are in the hiring process. Pettit said the district would like to hire 11 more. 

Applicants interested in becoming bus drivers are encouraged to visit. If new drivers don't stay on the job for a year, they will have to pay back a prorated amount of that signing bonus back to the district. To APPLY CLICK HERE