This browser does not support the Video element.
Waukesha school bus test drive
The School District of Waukesha and First Student held a school bus test drive event on Thursday, July 11. They hope it will lead to new applicants.
WAUKESHA, Wis. - The School District of Waukesha hopes a unique event, held on Thursday, will attract new bus drivers.
First Student and the school district let people drive a bus around the North High School parking lot. They’re trying to prove a big bus is no big deal while filling an urgent need.
"This is a really rewarding job and really needed," said Joni Sablich, First Student location manager.
SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News
Bus driver shortage
The test drive was just the start, and organizers hope it will prompt people to apply for a job.
"We believe that if people get out, take the opportunity to drive the bus, they really are going to find out it’s not a big deal to drive," Sablich said.
School District of Waukesha, First Student hold school bus test drive event
"I think it’s no secret that we got caught off guard last year," school board member David Wadd said.
Last fall, the district started the school year without bus drivers for nine routes. It left parents and students scrambling.
"They’ve already been hiring drivers. This July, they’ve already hired three," said deputy superintendent Jennifer Gennerman.
FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX6 News app for iOS or Android.
For this fall, Gennerman said there has been progress. First Student has hired 58 drivers, but the company still needs 20 more.
"The unemployment rate is very low, and it’s very difficult to recruit people in general," superintendent Jim Sebert said.
District leaders said parents should have their own backup plan for the fall just in case no other applicants get on board. Parents should look for transportation updates next week and again in August.
School District of Waukesha First Student school bus
Hiring info
First Student is trying to attract applicants with a $4,000 signing bonus and a guaranteed 25 hours per week. Wages start at $24 per hour.
"You know when you’re working, summers are off if you want them," said Sablich.
Anyone interested in applying can do so through the First Student website.