A caring smile, fun t-shirt, friendly attitude and a safe, enjoyable ride are what students can expect on bus driver Julie Boyd’s bus. Tuesday, Apr. 23, is National School Bus Driver Appreciation Day, and the community will undoubtedly celebrate Ms. Julie.
Ms. Julie has been driving buses for a decade and said that she got into the field because she always loved working with children and ‘needed a job at the time.’ However, once she learned how to drive the bus, she ‘absolutely loved the job.’
“I do what I do for self-gratification,” Ms. Julie said. “I have had the honor of transporting students from all walks of life. Each one has blessed my life in some way.”
The driver shows up for her students by taking the time to learn their names and a little about them.
“I try to listen (very important) to each of them,” Ms. Julie said. “Their likes, dislikes, birthdays and life happenings. In past years I have shown up to classroom parties, birthday parties, sports and holiday events. If a child asks, I do my best to try to attend any event. I want them to always feel safe, happy and loved.”
The driver’s caring efforts and benevolent spirit do not go unnoticed by her passengers.
“She always gives us snacks and puts a lot of thought into making the bus ride safe and enjoyable,” one student said (the student wishes to remain anonymous). “She cares about the students and puts students’ needs first. She is also really friendly and connects with the students well.”
Ms. Julie said that through her work, she hopes to teach students that ‘there is always someone watching.’ She emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect and understanding.
“These children are our future, if we show them kindness and respect we may have fighting chance for our future as we grow older,” the driver said. “Students no matter what age, race, religion or status can be amazing, We as adults need to give them an opportunity to shine the best way they can.”
Ms. Julie’s favorite bus driving memory was three years spent driving a group of boys, she shares that ‘each day was definitely an adventure.’
“As their graduation neared these kids became young men,” Ms. Julie said. “They showed their gratitude by purchasing a heart-shaped necklace for me, but that is not what got me. The card I received from them is currently hanging on my wall at home. They thanked me for never giving up on them, greeting each of them four times a day, and for showing them respect. To this day, they drop in to say ‘hello’ and to keep me posted on their lives.”
This National School Bus Driver Appreciation Day, we will remember Ms. Julie’s endeavors and strive to honor her name by treating others with kindness and respect and taking the time to be understanding.
“Ms. Julie goes above and beyond for us in many ways,” sophomore Jarnail Pannu said. “She does not just care about dropping us on time, but rather making sure we have a calm, relaxed and safe experience whenever we ride the bus. She always wishes me a great day and gives out snacks whenever we are hungry. She truly is the best bus driver out there!”
