Updated 10/18/19

Giles County school leaders are trying to get the word out that they are in desperate need of more bus drivers.

Approximately 60 yellow buses roll through Giles County each day with a certified driver.

According to Steve Nave, worker at the School Bus Garage, they had to close the garage a few hours last week for employees that are certified to drive the buses due to not having extra drivers.

“As you know, bus drivers are extremely difficult to find,” Nave said. “It is a problem statewide.”

“It is not just the salary, it is a difficult job,” Nave added. Student discipline, he said, is also a primary detractor for candidates.

Once Nave has a bus driver candidate ready to start, that is only the beginning. The driver has more than a month of tests, screenings, and road training.

The minimum 25-year-old candidate must first pass a knowledge and skills test to receive a commercial driver’s license, then wait 14 days. The driver is tested on performing a pre-trip inspection, basic control maneuvers and road skills.

Nave said Giles County need more full time drivers than sub drivers, but will take both.

Pay for Giles County bus drivers are $1047 a month for full time drivers which includes benefits.