Show the bus drivers some love!

By Averie Grace-Hayes

Photo of Dave Deboard’s bus taken by David Deboard

The work that bus drivers do often happens behind the scenes; however, they work very hard for the school, the students and the community. Many students take the bus day in and day out, which is why bus drivers are a necessity to the structure of OHS. To spotlight the often unnoticed profession, I interviewed an exceptional Owasso district bus driver, giving him the opportunity to share his story.

David Deboard has just concluded his first full year as a bus driver. While working for OHS, Deboard has cultivated a virtuous connection with his students.

Deboard states, “I try to learn their first names, and I tell them good morning and good afternoon as they’re getting on the bus. There are times when I have a little contest, and the winner wins a gift card, or I get them a cookie for their birthday.”

With these relationships, Deboard has grown to enjoy this job considerably. While forming a bond with his students is important, it’s also nice to have a break.

“The job provides a break each day because I am finished with the morning route by 9:00 AM, and I don’t start my afternoon route until 2:30 PM. However, there are times I also get to drive a field trip, and that can fill up my time,” says Deboard.

Although Deboard might not be driving throughout the day, being a bus driver is hard work. The job requires significant attention to detail, which is a habit that many tend to overlook. Every day, drivers have to ensure that the mechanics on the bus are safe and clean.

Deboard calmly says, “my day starts at just after 6:00 AM…I head to my bus around 6:30 AM to do a check… checking lights, tires, windows, doors, seats and the aisle. Once finished, I begin picking up students at about 7:00 AM.”

Deboard has received little gifts here and there that he displays in his bus, along with the simple ‘hellos’ and ‘thank you’s’ by teachers and the occasional student. 

The bus drivers at OHS deserve more attention because of the time they put into the community and the students. Furthermore, whenever you’re getting on your bus to go home, to school or even going on a field trip, think about the person driving you and be sure to express how much you appreciate their work.