As a dedicated school bus driver, I genuinely enjoy my time with the kids and all their amusing antics. However, interacting with some parents can be quite the challenge. Here are ten comments you might want to reconsider before saying them to your child’s bus driver:
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“My kids will never take the bus; it’s far too dangerous.”
Buses are designed with safety in mind, featuring tall, padded seats that protect children without the need for seat belts. In fact, your child is statistically more at risk when you drive them to school. Buses are built to withstand impacts better than cars, making them a safer choice.
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“My child was bullied on the bus, and you didn’t do anything about it.”
Bullying is unfortunate, and we strive to address it. If a child is found bullying, we take action, which may involve notifying the principal and the parents. However, it’s essential for your child to report any issues directly to me; without their input, I can’t address problems I’m not aware of.
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“Are you certain it was my child?”
Yes, I’m quite certain. If your child has been behaving inappropriately, it’s not just one instance. Multiple kids have reported the same issue, and as the sole adult supervising up to 77 children, my observations are based on what I see firsthand.
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“But the other kids started it!”
While it’s true that conflicts often involve multiple parties, responding with violence is not acceptable. The golden rule—treat others as you wish to be treated—applies here.
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“I know my child can be troublesome.”
This statement often suggests that while a parent acknowledges their child’s behavior, they feel no obligation to correct it. It’s important for you to step up and help your child understand the consequences of their actions.
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“Why won’t you come to my house?”
Routes are determined by safety protocols and geographical limitations. We can’t navigate private roads or unsafe conditions, especially during winter months when roads can be treacherous.
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“Sorry I’m late.”
While I appreciate the sentiment, your tardiness delays all the other children. I cannot leave a kindergartener at the bottom of a steep hill to wait for you, as it compromises their safety.
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“I didn’t see you.”
It’s surprising how often I hear this from drivers who pass by with flashing lights activated. The large, bright yellow bus with distinct signals shouldn’t be missed. It’s crucial for everyone’s safety to be attentive on the road.
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“I wasn’t the one who passed you.”
We document license plates of vehicles that ignore our stop signals. If you drive a distinctive car and receive a call from the police, it’s likely not a coincidence.
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“How do you manage your job without losing your cool?”
Being a school bus driver isn’t a glamorous role, but I cherish it. I love being a part of the kids’ lives, watching them grow from kindergarten to fifth grade, and enjoying the occasional heartfelt card declaring me “the best bus driver ever.” The challenges are outweighed by these rewarding moments.
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In summary, being mindful of what you say to your child’s bus driver can foster better communication and understanding. Respecting their role not only creates a positive environment for your child but also enhances the overall experience for everyone involved.