Bus driver shortage across the nation

Posted on October 14, 2021
school bus
Unit 5 Superintendent Dr. Kristen Weikle spoke with WJBC’s Scott Miller. (WJBC file photo)

By Neil Doyle

NORMAL – Many school districts are looking for more bus drivers, and that includes Unit 5.

Superintendent Dr. Kristen Weikle says the district’s vendor First Student has been hiring since the summer and is offering more incentives to attract new drivers. Weikle spoke with WJBC’s Scott Miller.

“They’ve increased their hiring bonuses for drivers who go through the training program and then work for Unit 5 and stay employed with the district. As well as a bigger incentive for those drivers who come to us with experience,” said Weikle.

“We are really competing for drivers with every other bus transportation service as well as businesses who need CDL drivers that pickup and deliver their products,” Weikle added.

Weikle says the district has had some issues with delays and route changes, but they’ve continued to work through those problems throughout the school year.

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]

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