Academy District 20 struggles with bus driver shortage

Employees at District 20 are stepping in to help after a shortage of bus drivers in the largest school district in Colorado Springs has started to affect service.

According to the district, they’ve struggled with having insufficient drivers for 12 of its 130 routes since the beginning of school in August.

“Where we’re falling short is on activities, after-school field trips and things like that. We’re just running out of drivers,” said Brian Grady, the Executive Director of Security and Transportation.

To attract more applicants, the district is trying to stay competitive with pay and benefits. D-20 bus drivers qualify for health, dental, vision and voluntary insurance.

“We are currently the highest paying school district for the hourly wage of $15.63 an hour,” Grady said.

The district is also giving incentives to any current employees, except administrators, who refer a new bus driver.

“It’s good for young parents that want to spend time with their kids and are off when school is out, with holidays together and retirees looking for insurance,” he said.

If you’re interested in applying, visit District 20’s website.

KRDO Only 2019