CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — School bus drivers and monitors who work for Durham School Services here recently voted to unionize.
With the May 17 vote, 269 Durham employees in Chattanooga will join Teamsters Local 327.
About 270 drivers and monitors become Teamsters after a recent vote.
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — School bus drivers and monitors who work for Durham School Services here recently voted to unionize.
With the May 17 vote, 269 Durham employees in Chattanooga will join Teamsters Local 327.
According to the union, school bus drivers and monitors in Chattanooga started the organizing effort after the November 2016 school bus crash in which six children were killed.
"After the accident, the drivers and monitors were concerned because there were still serious safety issues and the workers didn't feel like they had a voice,” Local 327 President Joe Bennett said. “That has been a big part of the organizing effort.”
Other issues that were involved included wages, benefits, and seniority, according to the union.

We're looking for an amazing school bus contractor executive who embodies dedication, excellence, and innovation. Nominate the greats you know for SBF's 2026 award! Nominations close March 31.
Read More →
Nominations are now open for the second annual 2026 School Bus Driver Hero Award. Help us honor the drivers who selflessly dedicate themselves to ensuring the safety, well-being, and success of the students they transport every day.
Read More →
Check in with Tennessee’s new state transportation manager, Josh Hinerman, as he reflects on his journey, path to leadership, and priorities for student-centered transportation.
Read More →
The new program rewards B2B audience readers for engaging with trusted content and suppliers, earning them points toward events, travel, and more.
Read More →
What if your fleet technology actually worked together? Learn eight practical strategies to integrate multiple systems into one platform, unlocking clearer insights, stronger safety standards, and smoother daily operations.
Read More →
NAPT announced the results of its 2026 special election, naming new regional directors for Regions 3 and 6.
Read More →
Strong communication and trust between transportation leaders and school boards are essential to safe, effective operations. Here’s how to build a better partnership.
Read More →
Get ready to promote our industry's favorite month of the year! Gear up to recognize Love the Bus Month with these new resources.
Read More →
Let’s check in with the Canadian manufacturer with a new U.S. presence! Hear first-hand about Micro Bird’s expansion and the company’s long-term North American vision.
Read More →
From software updates to AI video search, major contracts, and global ratings, here’s the latest school bus supplier and OEM news.
Read More →