Last week, the SBF staff received the photo above as well as several others from John Clements, transportation director at Kings Canyon Unified School District in Reedley, Calif. Clements said he took the photos near the Kings Canyon National Park in Dunlap, Calif., and that they capture the area’s “first real snowfall of the school year.”

I have long associated snow with the holidays, so Clements’ photos were a reminder that the holiday season is in full swing. They were also yet another example of pupil transportation professionals’ dedication to the students they transport. (Having grown up in Southern California, I have a hard time going outdoors when it’s below 65 degrees — my hat’s off to school bus drivers who regularly transport students in snowy weather!)

Earlier this month, we reported on our Website that the staff members at Lee County Public Schools’ Transportation West in Canton, Ga., try to help out those less fortunate during the holidays.

This year, to bring a little joy and happiness to students who may otherwise not have a happy holiday, the staff put together approximately 850 gift bags and will distribute them at five area elementary schools over a two-day period.

The school bus drivers plan to take on the role of Santa Claus as the gifts are delivered.

Moreover, over the past few weeks, I have read numerous stories online that report on similar efforts at other districts. At Wilmington (Ohio) City Schools, for instance, school bus drivers began collecting gifts for families during the Thanksgiving weekend and now have enough to distribute to 57 families in the school district.  

“Stuff the Bus” events also abound. Selah (Wash.) School District held Stuff the Bus events throughout the month to help families in need, as did two high schools in Washougal, Wash., as we reported in a past set of Bus Briefs.

Does your operation hold any charitable events for the holidays? Tell us about them in the comments section below or send an e-mail to info@schoolbusfleet.com.

Happy Holidays,

Kelly