LOUISVILLE, Ky. — When Lamecka Savage gets behind the wheel of the school bus she drives each day, she knows she’s not just making sure students get to and from school safely.
“We are the first face that they see in the morning that makes their day and we are the last face they see when they go home," she said.
What You Need To Know
- Jefferson County Public Schools is holding a 'Bus Driver Blitz' on July 25
- The district hopes to hire 100 drivers
- The event is being held at the C.B. Young Service Center on Crittenden Drive
Savage and the students, who call her “Ms. Mecka," sing together on the bus for every birthday.
She has watched them grow from elementary to high school.
"My bus, we’re a family," she said.
Savage has been driving for the district for 22 years and now she is hoping others will join her and take on their own routes.
JCPS says it is looking to bring on 100 new drivers ahead of the new school year.
"If a driver calls in sick and we don’t have someone to cover that, [Savage] does her route and then she’s covering someone else’s and so the more that we hire, the more efficient and better service we can provide to students," said Chris Perkins, JCPS chief operations officer.
To encourage new hires, a “Bus Driver Blitz” is scheduled for Monday, July 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the C.B. Young Service Center on Crittenden Drive.
Applicants will be able to complete paperwork, undergo background checks and physicals and take part in interviews, district officials said.
The starting pay is $21.69 an hour plus a $6.00 an hour bonus, according to JCPS.
"The kids are what make the job worth doing," said Savage. "It’s a wonderful work experience and you’re doing your part for the community."
Anyone interested in applying is asked to bring a valid driver’s license, Social Security card, voided check or letter from a bank for direct deposit and a copy of a high school diploma or GED.