Mich. districts experience driver shortage
Fruitport, Muskegon, Orchard View and Whitehall districts are all in need of drivers. Officials say that the requirements for the job — including extensive training, split shifts and drug screenings — often deter potential candidates.
MUSKEGON, Mich. — Muskegon Public Schools and other area districts are struggling to find school bus drivers, which officials said was due to the extensive training and health requirements, among other things, MLive reports.
A job fair held by Michigan Works at the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District over the summer attracted about 40 job seekers, but some of them seemed discouraged by the time the training would take, according Becki Shackles, transportation director for Fruitport Community Schools. Officials also said split-shift hours, random drug and alcohol screenings and the ability to make more money from unemployment benefits deterred possible candidates.
Fruitport, Muskegon, Orchard View and Whitehall districts are all looking for drivers.
To read the full story, click here.
Other news on driver shortages:
More Management

Zum Expands to Rhode Island with 2 New District Partnerships
The Ocean State becomes Zum’s 18th state served as the company expands its presence in the Northeast U.S., while launching operations in Philadelphia, and supporting FIFA World Cup 2026.
Read More →
The Driver Shortage Playbook
How student transportation fleets are hiring, retaining and adapting .
Read More →
Stertil-Koni Announces New Company President
Lewis Nelson joins the heavy-duty vehicle lift provider, succeeding Scott Steinhardt in the lead role.
Read More →
Tennessee Hall of Fame Honors Drivers for Decades of Service
Frances Theiring, a school bus driver for Wilson County Schools, retires this year after almost 50 years on the road. She is one of two long-time drivers honored for their service in the state.
Read More →
What Happens to a School Bus After Retirement? First Student Has a New Answer
Through a new partnership with Advanced Remarketing Services, proceeds from retired vehicle sales will support Special Olympics and other community-focused organizations while advancing sustainability goals.
Read More →
School Bus Logistics Adds 3 Data Analysts, Expands Routing Capabilities
Three new data analysts and a BusRight certification bring an added layer of support to the routing services districts already use.
Read More →
Outsourcing Student Transportation Services Toolkit
Did you know nearly 40% of school districts utilize a private contractor to serve their transportation needs? Explore why more school leaders are turning to contracted transportation services, and how outsourcing can create meaningful value without sacrificing control. Discover the practical benefits of a transportation services platform that provides flexibility with coordination.
Read More →
EverDriven Debuts TripCentral as New District Transportation Portal
The new transportation management hub takes over the district portal to power trip planning, operations, visibility, and intelligence for school district transportation needs.
Read More →
Lessons Learned from 4 Decades in Transportation: 5 Questions with Craig Beaver
Sit down with longtime transportation leader Craig Beaver moments before he retires, as he reflects on his career leading up to his role at Beaverton School District in Oregon and the secrets to leading great teams.
Read More →
BusRight Honors Texas Driver With Inaugural Behind The Wheel Award
Selected from more than 300 nominations, Lawson Crook earned BusRight’s inaugural award for his dedication to students and safety.
Read More →



