As part of the third annual Love the Bus program, the pupil transportation community is encouraging the public to thank the men and women who safely transport millions of children each school day.

The program, coordinated by the American School Bus Council (ASBC), is celebrated on Valentine’s Day and throughout February to raise awareness and appreciation for the nation’s hundreds of thousands of school bus drivers. It is also an opportunity for parents and children to learn more about the safety and environmental benefits of school bus transportation.

School districts and contractors throughout the country will hold local Love the Bus events. In past years, activities have included providing lunch for drivers, presenting awards and T-shirts, and having kids plant magnetic lips on a bus. Community officials and media outlets are often encouraged to attend.

In North Carolina, the Department of Public Instruction has assembled a list of Love the Bus events that will be held throughout the state. It can be viewed here.

“Our school bus drivers ensure that our children arrive safely to and from school,” said Mike Martin, executive director of the National Association for Pupil Transportation and a member of ASBC. “The service they provide allows parents to rest assured knowing that their children are well taken care of when they aren’t with them.”

To help celebrate Love the Bus, parents, teachers and children are encouraged to visit www.lovethebus.com to share stories about and make valentines for their bus drivers. The site also offers an educator’s toolkit, which includes details on incorporating Love The Bus into lesson plans.

“We’re encouraging parents, teachers and children to thank school bus drivers for the wonderful job they do every day,” said Bob Riley, executive director of the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services and a member of ASBC. “Love the Bus officially takes place in February, but we hope they’re recognized for their position as role models every day.”