Alabama bus driver has perfect attendance

ANNISTON, Ala. — In nearly 30 years of serving as a bus driver for Calhoun County Schools, Jackie Hightower has achieved an impressive accomplishment — she’s never missed a day of work. 

Even breaking her leg in 1990 when she was involved in a three-wheeler wreck didn’t stop Hightower from getting behind the wheel of her school bus.

"There's just something about missing work that bothers me," she told the Calhoun County Journal. "Mom and Dad never missed any work. I guess I got it from them. They always said be the best at whatever you do and don't give excuses."

In addition to the values instilled in her by her parents, Hightower said that being around the students she transports motivates her, as is a desire to be a good employee for Dave McCormick, the district’s transportation director.

"I know how tough it is for Dave to find substitute drivers," Hightower said. "I don't want to put him in that kind of bind."