UniteGPS – New bus drivers, bus aides, and substitute drivers at Roanoke County Public Schools in Virginia can now anticipate generous sign-on bonuses as the community navigates around the nationwide hiring shortage. 

Roanoke County Public Schools will provide bonuses worth up to $1,500 to bus personnel

Currently short of 13 drivers, the district has devised an incentive package recently approved by the Roanoke County School Board. 

Based on a recent press release, the district will pay new bus drivers with a pre-existing CDL a $1,500 bonus after driving for 90 days. 

If a bus driver applicant doesn’t have their CDL, though, then Roanoke County Schools will provide training assistance followed by a $1,000 bonus after driving for 90 days. Bus aid hires are to also earn $500.

On average, bus drivers in Roanoke County Schools drive at least five hours a day. The beginning hourly rate is $16.96 and health benefits are available, according to WFIR.

According to a recent Ohio survey, low wages are traditionally one of the most prevalent barriers of entry for prospective bus drivers.