Meet Our Drivers

Kevin has a great sense of humor and a unique perspective on life. Whether he's behind the wheel or chatting with students, he’s always ready to bring a little fun and a lot of patience to his job. Kevin is surprised by the language and smells that come from middle schoolers. “I didn’t expect the kind of talk they use or how... let’s say ‘unique’ the bus can smell at times,” he says, though he takes it all in stride. Every job has its surprises, and Kevin is no stranger to handling them with humor.

 Meet Liz, heart and soul behind the wheel. Her favorite part of being a bus driver? The opportunity to make a positive impact on the young minds she transports. Whether it's a smile, a word of encouragement, or a listening ear, Liz is dedicated to brightening their day. But even the most seasoned drivers have their moments, and Liz's most unforgettable mishap involved accidentally filling a diesel bus with gasoline—a blunder that still garners a chuckle or two from her colleagues.

Shelli is a school bus driver who brings heart and humor to the ride. She is the kind of person who leaves a mark on everyone she meets. She has a knack for connecting with kids and their families, and she’s always ready with a smile and a kind word. She finds joy in seeing how she can make a positive impact in their lives, whether it’s by listening to their stories or simply offering a smile to start their day. Shelli’s relationship with her students goes beyond just the ride to school—she’s a friend & confidante.

Amy grew up right here in Knoxville and, along with her husband, is raising her 2 boys here. They are the joys of her life. She is an avid reader and always has a book handy. Her favorite color is purple, and her favorite holiday is Christmas. Amy says she is surprised by how much she has gotten from being a bus driver. “I love to drive, and I love kids, but I wasn’t expecting to learn so much from my passengers.”

Duane's warmth and humor make every ride a memorable journey. Born and raised in the picturesque Big Ridge Community of Union County, TN, Duane brings a touch of Southern hospitality to every interaction.   

It's the students he transports and the leisurely midday breaks that offer respite from the daily grind that Duane loves most about being a bus driver.

 With a rich background as a retired Special Education teacher, Katie brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the importance of fostering a safe and supportive environment for all. 

What drew Katie to this role? Her love for people and, of course, the kids! With a heart full of compassion, Katie's favorite aspect of this job is the interactions she gets to have with all of you. 

Eric is a seasoned bus driver whose passion for his job goes beyond just transporting passengers from point A to point B. Hailing from the heart of Missouri, he's found solace and purpose in navigating the roads and connecting with his beloved passengers. The joy he finds in the company of his young passengers is what drives Eric. Their affection and warmth make every ride a heartwarming experience for him. 

Michelle embodies compassion and dedication as she navigates the roads, her heart overflowing with love for her students and gratitude for the holidays that allow her precious time with loved ones. From the laughter of her students to the bond she shares with her furry companions, Michelle finds joy in the love that surrounds her, be it from her family, her brothers and sisters in Christ, or her beloved animals.

Barry, affectionately known as Bear, is more than just your average school bus driver. With a heart as big as his smile, Barry finds immense joy in the simple act of serving and making a positive impact on the lives of the children he transports.  But above all, it's Barry's humor that truly sets him apart.   

 Keri is not just your average school bus driver; she’s a vibrant bundle of joy with a penchant for puns and an unexpected talent for opera. She is happy to spread joy to her young passengers, making each ride a little brighter with her infectious spirit and spontaneous bursts of song. 

Amanda has always been deeply rooted in our community, and her caring nature shines through in everything she does. Amanda’s vibrant personality, sense of humor, and unwavering dedication make her a cherished part of our bus family, and her commitment to her job and her family is inspiring.

 For Gayle, the highlight of being a bus driver isn't just the journey—it's the people she shares it with. From her cherished co-workers to the spirited children she transports, every interaction is an opportunity to brighten someone's day. Above all, Gayle finds joy in her family, who bring light and laughter to her life each day. Their unwavering support fuels her passion for making a difference in the lives of others. 

Mindy's journey as a school bus driver is a tale woven with unique experiences and a heart full of warmth. From the very start of her career, Mindy discovered a haven away from the chaos of the world – a job devoid of politics and profanity. This sanctuary on wheels became her sanctuary, where the laughter of children and the hum of the engine drowned out the noise of the outside world.

Christy epitomizes the heart and soul of a dedicated school bus driver, with a deep-rooted love for her students and a profound appreciation for the camaraderie amongst her colleagues. Every day behind the wheel is a testament to Christy's love for her passengers. The unpredictability of each day brings a sense of excitement and purpose, reminding her that no two journeys are ever the same.

Luann is a dedicated school bus driver who's not just navigating roads but also making a meaningful impact on children's lives every day. Luann's passion for her job stems from her deep-seated desire to make a positive difference, coupled with her sheer enjoyment of driving a bus.  She finds that the big yellow  bus can evoke fear in some, a fact that puzzles her given its role in safely transporting children.  

Sarah brings a special touch of warmth and dedication to her role, driven by her love for children and the joy she finds in being with them.  As she navigates the roads, Sarah's biggest surprise has been witnessing the dangers posed by other drivers. Her keen awareness and commitment to safety ensure that every child entrusted to her care reaches their destination securely. 

Lacey embodies the spirit of warmth and compassion as she navigates the roads, not just as a school bus driver but as a cherished mentor and friend to her young passengers. Towering heights may evoke fear in Lacey's heart, but her unwavering dedication to her passengers eclipses any personal apprehensions. If you ever encounter Lacey on her journey, remember her gentle spirit and handle with care, for in her presence, you'll find a friend, a confidante, and a beacon of light in life's sometimes turbulent waters.
 

Bonnie is the kind of person who doesn’t just show up to her job—she fully invests herself in it. She’s dedicated to making real connections with the kids she transports, and it’s clear from her warm, approachable personality that she’s got a heart full of care for the young minds she encounters each day. "The sound of laughter lightens my soul," she says. Whether she’s hearing the kids on her bus cracking jokes or watching them play, the joy and energy of children is something that fills her heart. Bonnie is a person who lives life with intention, strength, and an incredible amount of love for others.

Kasie is one of those people who brings a lot of heart to everything she does, especially when it comes to driving a school bus. With a natural warmth and a deep care for the kids she transports every day, it’s easy to see why she loves her job. She’s always ready with a joke or a funny story, and her positive energy is contagious!  Kasie is surprised by the kids’ conversations. From their wild imaginations to their candid thoughts, it’s always an adventure listening to them chat.

Clark is a School Bus Driver with a Heart Full of Adventure. He never thought he'd be driving a school bus, but here he is—behind the wheel and excited for the journey ahead. Clark is embracing the adventure of meeting new faces and starting each day with a smile. With his easygoing attitude, love for nature, and surprising depth of intelligence, he’s sure to make a lasting impression on the students he drives and everyone he meets.