BARTOW, Fla. — Polk County Public Schools is holding a series of job fairs in February as the district looks to hire bus drivers.
The school district has 15 bus driver openings right now, but it is looking to hire between 75 and 100 drivers.
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“We’re looking to fill additional positions for anticipated retirements and drivers who will be relocating over the summer,” said George Millar, senior coordinator of transportation services.
Last fall, the district increased the starting pay and reduced the education requirements for bus drivers. A high school diploma is no longer required.
Drivers now start at $10 an hour, but will earn $13.40 an hour once they are appointed.
After 90 days, drivers will receive full benefits including medical insurance and optional dental, vision and other insurances.
Officials say school bus drivers have a direct impact on the lives of children.
“Bus drivers are the individuals who get up very early in the morning and ensure our students get to school on time and safely each morning and are returned home in the evening,” Millar said. “Because of our drivers, our children have the opportunity to obtain a first-class education here in Polk County.”
You can learn more about becoming a Polk County school bus driver at the following job fairs:
Tuesday, February 5
Polk County Schools Support Services
1430 State Road 60 East
Bartow
8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, February 14
Frostproof Elementary School
118 W. Third St.
Frostproof
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Tuesday, February 19
Larry R. Jackson Branch Library
1700 North Florida Ave.
Lakeland
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 21
Spook Hill Elementary
321 Dr. J.A. Wiltshire Ave.
Lake Wales
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Tuesday, February 26
Haines City Public Library
111 N. 6th St.
Haines City
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
