PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. — Prince George's County is working to combat their shortage of almost 200 school bus drivers by hosting virtual job fairs.
Carl Schuettler, the transportation supervisor at Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS), announced that there will be two upcoming bus driver job fairs for people to mark on their calendar. One of the fairs will be held on Sept. 14 and the second on Sept. 21, both at 10 a.m.
The school system is facing a shortage of more than 190 bus drivers for this school year.
In a recent interview with WUSA9, an Upper Marlboro mom expressed concern about her daughter's walk to catch her bus. Last year, the 11-year-old only had to walk less than two minutes but now faces a 15-minute walk to the nearest bus stop. That is almost a mile away.
School bus drivers in the county will start off making $20.32 per hour with a benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as retirement plans.
Requirements for the bus driver position include:
- Must be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver's license
- At least three years of driving history
- Communicate effectively in English
- Ability to obtain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL), Class A or B with passenger endorsement or Class B Learner's Permit with passenger (P) and school bus (S) endorsements.
- No more than two current points on driving record. No more than three points issued in the past 10 years.
- Satisfactory past driving record
- Pass a DOT Physical Examination
- Ability to meet special training and qualifications determined by PGCPS
It is required to pre-register for the event. (Click here to register)