SOCSD Seeks Bus Drivers to Cut Commute Times!

The Sedona-Oak Creek School District is grappling with a significant shortage of bus drivers, a situation worsened by ongoing repercussions from the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, the district operates with about half the number of drivers needed, forcing the seven drivers on staff to endure longer hours and manage multiple routes.

Students like second-grader Pepper Marschall and her classmate Stella Papiernick have expressed their frustrations. Marschall shared that she spends roughly 90 minutes on the bus each way, while Papiernick explained hers was even longer at around 100 minutes. Their situation highlights the struggles families face when trying to balance work responsibilities with transportation needs for their children.

The district’s fleet consists of 18 buses along with two coach buses. However, the persistent driver shortage has extended the length of bus rides and reduced the number of stops for students. Previously, drivers would handle one morning and one afternoon route; they are now tasked with managing two to three routes in the same timeframe.

Vickie Gann, Director of Transportation, noted the challenges associated with hiring new drivers. She has been with the district for 13 years and has even stepped in to drive when necessary. The complexities stem partly from the impacts of COVID-19 and federal regulations regarding drug use, including marijuana, which disqualifies potential drivers.

According to Gann, the national shortage mirrors trends across the U.S., where about two-thirds of school bus drivers are over the age of 50. The Economic Policy Institute reported that nationwide, there are approximately 199,000 public school bus drivers, a 12% decline since September 2019. These demographic challenges are further compounded by low wages, which are a key factor contributing to the driver shortfall.

In Sedona, driver salaries start at $18 per hour for training, increasing to a minimum of $21 per hour after the completion of training and obtaining necessary licensing. Comparatively, other nearby districts and private companies offer more competitive wages, making recruitment difficult. Gann pointed out the need to attract drivers away from more lucrative tour companies, emphasizing that SOCSD does not provide signing bonuses, unlike larger districts.

The impact of this shortage is tangible. With fewer drivers available, sports trips and field trips have fallen by the wayside as the main priority remains transporting students to and from school. Gann expressed hopes that new buses and free CDL training could entice more applicants, while the district continues to explore staffing solutions and budget considerations for the upcoming school year.

The bus fleet, which includes aging models often lacking basic comforts such as air conditioning, is in the process of acquiring two new buses. Swaninger noted plans to purchase a new bus next year, with another set for 2026. Until then, current drivers are often forced to pull double duty, contributing to stress and exhaustion.

With student needs exceeding current capabilities, both Marschall and Papiernick have made it clear: the district requires more drivers to improve their experience and alleviate the burdens placed on families and staff alike.