FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. ← As schools nationwide struggle to fill vacant bus driver positions, an elementary principal in eastern Kentucky is stepping up and taking it into her own hands.
Donna Robinson, principal at John M. Stumbo Elementary School, tells Spectrum News 1," We’re in the kid business so we want to make sure when we come to school that we’re the best version of ourselves and give our kids 110%."
After an 8 hour day, it’s a 3 p.m. start. for school bus number 405 and Robinson who is only two weeks into being behind the wheel.
"Getting behind the wheel the first time is quite scary. You get used to it, but it’s certainly a lot different from driving a vehicle," explains Robinson.
She also works for the district in another role: and has been for the past 12 years, serving as John M. Stumbo Elementary School’s principal.
With the ongoing pandemic, Robinson and other employees in the district have had to assist in different capacities.
"Showing up, letting the people know, 'Hey we’re in this together, we’re going to get through it,'" said Robinson.
A shortage of transportation personnel district wide meant her students were arriving home late.
That’s when Robinson made the decision to become a certified bus driver and pick up the afternoon route.
It’s two routes, five days a week with around 45 students on board.
"We just had kids that were waiting an hour and a half or more after school before they could get started home," explains Robinson.
According to Joe Marson, Floyd County School’s transportation director, they have a shortage of 11 bus drivers and are currently trying to fill those positions.
Beyond her passions of being in education for 25 years, Robinson decided to put her foot to the pedal and become a part of the solution.
"I never thought of this before until the need was here and then once I realized the need because it hit right here at our school," said Robinson.
The Kentucky native says this experience has allowed her to bond with her students on another level.
"They just connect to you on a different level and once you have a good connection with the kid you can get what them to do what you need them to do in the classroom," suggests Robinson.
It’s certainly a gesture not going unnoticed by students like 7th grader Jackson Nelson to ensure the students can make it home safely.
" A normal principal wouldn’t do that and she’s a really good one," explains Nelson.
Through it makes for longer days, as long as there’s a shortage, Robinson says she will continue to be behind the wheel.
"We're on their team and we need to do what we can for them to make sure they can get the quality education they need. Doesn’t matter if you’re in third grade or eight grade they’re our kids," said Robinson.
Those interested in applying, can find more information on Floyd County School's website.