New York legislators recognize state’s school bus drivers

ALBANY, N.Y. — On May 24, the state Senate adopted a resolution declaring Oct. 21, 2011, School Bus Driver Appreciation Day.

The resolution was sponsored by Sen. William Larkin and co-sponsored by 22 other state senators. It will be transmitted to Gov. Andrew Cuomo. 

Larkin has sponsored similar resolutions in recent years thanks to the efforts of school bus driver Maureen Moore, who has worked at West Point Tours in Cornwall, N.Y., for 15 years. Moore has contacted Larkin since 2005 to request the adoption of the resolution. She told SBF this week that her ultimate goal is to achieve a National School Bus Driver Appreciation Day. 

This year’s resolution recognizes New York state’s school bus drivers for the safe transportation of more than 2 million children to school each day.

The resolution also affirms the tremendous responsibility required to serve as a school bus driver. It notes that drivers ensure that children arrive safely at school and are met by an adult upon returning home, and that drivers play a part in the fight against terrorism by reporting suspicious activity or people seen on their bus routes.

In a letter sent to Moore last month, Larkin wrote, “As you know, a school bus driver’s job duties are as extensive as they are difficult. Safely transporting students to and from school each day and safeguarding other people’s children are tremendous responsibilities that deserve the utmost recognition. Therefore, it was my pleasure to sponsor this resolution for New York’s school bus drivers, who do so much for our state.” 

In addition to serving as a school bus driver for West Point Tours and the work she does related to School Bus Driver Appreciation Day, Moore is the author of a booklet called "Gerry the Groundhog Learns About School Bus Safety,” which SBF reviewed in 2006.

Moore told SBF that the booklet has been read by students in schools in 16 states as well as in Canada.

“Hopefully it has helped to keep many school bus riders safer,” she added.