Bus driver flex career path model

3/10/2024

House Bill 33 of the 135th General Assembly brought about a new Ohio law that requires the Department of Education and Workforce to develop a bus driver flex career path model intended to create a pathway for bus drivers to also work as educational aides or student monitors at schools and districts. The model is meant to offer guidance and recommendations to districts and schools in successfully hiring and retaining bus drivers.

While the statutory mandate for this bus driver flex career path model is limited to individuals serving in a dual role as a school bus driver, educational aide, or student monitor, schools and districts should not limit their consideration to this singular dual role format. Schools and districts are encouraged to explore the option of enlisting the help of other district personnel to become bus drivers. School districts need to ensure an individual completes all necessary bus driver training requirements and obtains the proper certification and license.

The Department worked with external stakeholders, including the Ohio Association of School Business Officials, Ohio Association for Pupil Transportation, Northmor Local School District, and Riverside Local School District, to develop this model.