North Raleigh Today

Governor Josh Stein has proclaimed the week of February 10th to February 14th as School Bus Driver Week in North Carolina. This recognition highlights the essential role bus drivers play in ensuring students' safe transportation to school and addresses the ongoing issue of driver vacancies across the state.

"North Carolina’s bus drivers are a vital engine in our students’ success," stated Governor Stein. "I am pleased to dedicate this week to the hardworking bus drivers who, regardless of road or weather conditions, ensure that North Carolina’s students get to school safely. Let us also use this occasion to raise awareness of the need for increased pay and better benefits, so that we can better recruit and retain employees for this critical role."

North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction Mo Green supported Governor Stein's initiative by emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation for academic success. "Every child in North Carolina deserves the opportunity to succeed academically, and that includes reliable transportation to and from school. Each day, thousands of students across North Carolina rely on bus drivers to make that happen," he said. "I join Governor Stein in calling for increased pay and respect for our talented bus drivers."

In 2023, reports indicated that approximately 13 percent of school bus driver positions were unfilled within North Carolina's school systems. This shortage has resulted in longer commute times, extended walks to bus stops for students, and less predictable schedules. Currently, over 10,000 school buses transport more than 620,000 students daily throughout North Carolina.

The full proclamation is available for public viewing.