Orange County Public Schools in Florida is facing a shortage of school bus drivers, a common issue across the country. To address this problem, OCPS is hosting a job fair on Monday, Aug. 19, with the goal of recruiting about 100 new drivers. Bill Wen, senior director of OCPS Transportation Services, emphasized the importance of finding qualified bus drivers to ensure the smooth operation of the school transportation system.
One of the key incentives offered by OCPS to attract new bus drivers is competitive starting rates. In addition, the district has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to provide up to $8,000 in bonuses for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years. This bonus is on top of other additional bonuses available for both current and new bus drivers. These benefits aim to make the position more appealing and competitive in the job market.
Some of the additional benefits offered by OCPS to bus drivers include paid training to obtain a CDL license, $0 cost personal health insurance, retirement packages through the Florida Retirement System, a benefits package valued at $21,513, a uniform program for bus operators and mechanics, no weekends or late-night shifts, paid holidays and sick days, the opportunity for additional field trips, newer school buses, and seven work locations to choose from. These benefits are designed to make the job more attractive and provide a supportive work environment for bus drivers.
Mirlande Jean Baptiste, a former OCPS bus driver who had to stop due to health issues, is one of the individuals looking to return to her previous position. She expressed her fondness for Orange County and her desire to rejoin the team. The job fair on Monday will provide an opportunity for individuals like Baptiste to explore the possibility of returning to work as a bus driver for OCPS.
The job fair will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Hanging Moss Compound, located at 6721 Hanging Moss Road, Orlando, FL 32807. In addition to the upcoming job fair on Aug. 19, OCPS Transportation Services will be hosting several more career fairs in the coming months, providing multiple opportunities for individuals interested in becoming school bus drivers to learn more about the position and the benefits offered by OCPS.
Overall, the efforts by Orange County Public Schools to address the shortage of bus drivers demonstrate their commitment to providing safe and reliable transportation for students. By offering competitive incentives and benefits, OCPS aims to attract qualified individuals to join their team and contribute to the success of the school transportation system.