By Molly McGee Hewitt, PhD, CAE
When I initially joined NAPT, I had to carefully evaluate what changes we should implement, what elements to maintain, and what practices to discontinue. Love the Bus was definitely among the priorities. In my opinion, this initiative is one of our most crucial – keep it, check! But it doesn’t stop there; let’s not only retain it—let’s make it the cornerstone upon which we build our entire year!
In February, we are able to dedicate an entire month to the Love the Bus campaign. We are able to honor our industry, acknowledge the leadership of student transportation professionals, and celebrate remarkable safety records that come from transporting millions of students daily.
Recently, I had a conversation about Love the Bus with someone who questioned its purpose, and I nearly spilled my coffee in surprise! Once I regained my composure, I shared my perspective from just three years ago, when I believed Love the Bus would become a permanent fixture and receive the recognition it truly deserves. Little did I know back then how profoundly this campaign would grow, touching the hearts of so many across the nation. I explained to my inquisitive friend that Love the Bus is not just about celebrating buses or the logistics of student transportation. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the dedicated individuals who ensure that our children travel safely to and from school each day.
I went on to say that these are the people who greet students with a warm smile on chilly mornings, who navigate through challenging weather conditions, and who foster a sense of community and care. Love the Bus is an opportunity to express our gratitude and to shine a light on the indispensable role that transportation professionals play in the educational journey of every student.
I told my friend that the essence of Love the Bus lies in its ability to connect us, to remind us of the human element behind the wheels of the yellow school buses that are an iconic part of our educational landscape. It’s about creating a culture of appreciation and ensuring that our everyday heroes receive the acknowledgment they so richly deserve.
Your involvement in the Love the Bus campaign is entirely voluntary, and we understand that participation can differ from district to district and state to state. Our aim is to assist you in implementing the campaign that suits you best! As your professional association, we are here to support you in every way we can! There’s no correct or incorrect method to celebrate! Just keep in mind that feeling valued, appreciated, and supported is essential for retaining exceptional staff. Love the Bus simply provides us with ways to acknowledge and celebrate!
Reflecting on my journey with NAPT, I recognize that I haven’t always made the perfect choices (I believe that no true leader should aim to be flawless). However, I take solace in the fact that my choice to keep the Love the Bus campaign as part of our professional staff’s work has, each year, highlighted a positive aspect of an industry often overshadowed by negative headlines. Through Love the Bus, we’ve been able to shift the narrative, focusing on the dedication and passion of those who contribute tirelessly to student safety and well-being. This campaign serves as a beacon of positivity, casting light on stories of kindness, resilience, and community spirit that too often go untold. Each year, I am inspired by the creativity and enthusiasm with which schools and communities embrace this initiative, finding unique ways to honor the unsung heroes who drive our children to a brighter future.
As we move forward, my hope is that Love the Bus continues to foster a deeper appreciation for the vital role of transportation professionals, encouraging a culture of respect and gratitude that extends beyond the month of February. Whether it’s through heartfelt thank you notes from students, special recognition events, or simply a wave and a smile, every gesture counts in showing our appreciation for the incredible work being done every day.
Our journey with Love the Bus is a testament to the power of collective effort and the impact of acknowledging those who often work behind the scenes. With continued dedication, I am confident that we can inspire even more communities to join in, ensuring that the spirit of Love the Bus resonates throughout the year.