School bus drivers needed in district

The Douglas County School District is in need of a few good men and women to drive school buses this fall.

"We're looking to fill at least six regular route openings and we always need substitute drivers," said Transportation Supervisor Sharon Inman.

"They must be at least 21 years old but there's no age requirement, as long as they can pass the training and the physical," Inman said. "We have one driver in his 70s and one who just turned 22."

The district is losing several drivers this year to retirement and several are moving out of the area.

Inman said the transportation department provides paid training.

"We wanted to get everyone trained before school starts again on Aug. 22," said Inman, who drove a school bus for 15 years.

"This job is good for families because you're off when the kids are off for vacation. It's a good job for moms or people who want to spend time with their families. I liked the interaction with the kids," she said.

In order to become a school bus driver in Douglas County, an applicant must have a good driving record and pass a drug test. The applicant will be fingerprinted and a background check is conducted to make certain that only those who are safe around children drive buses. A physical examination is required before licensing and must be updated every other year or every year after age 60. By law, drivers are chosen for random drug and alcohol testing on a regular basis.

To find out more about being a school bus driver, go to the Douglas County School District's Web site, www.dcsd.k12.nv.us or call the transportation department at 782-5194. Applications are available online or at the district office, 1638 Mono Ave., Minden, 782-3154.