More Than Just a Bus Driver

More Than Just a Bus Driver

Today marks a bittersweet moment in our lives. It is the last day my child will be greeted by Miss Dana, our beloved school bus driver, who has decided to leave her long-time post and embark on a new chapter. As we said goodbye this morning, she handed out heartfelt letters to the families she served—one final act of the warmth and thoughtfulness she consistently showed us throughout the years.

I consider it a stroke of great fortune that Dana was my child’s bus driver. That’s why this parting feels particularly emotional. But I also know that she is moving on to a well-deserved promotion—one that recognizes her dedication and excellence. So today, I write with a heart full of two emotions: sadness at her departure and joy for her future. And more importantly, I want to reflect on how much I have learned by simply watching her do her job with grace.

Unlike most school buses that rush away moments after the last child climbs aboard, Dana’s bus always lingered. There was always time for a warm smile, a kind word, a wave to parents at the curb. She knew every child’s name and remembered details about their day or their progress. “Wow, you climbed those steps so strongly today! That’s awesome,” she would cheer. And in those simple moments, children felt seen, celebrated, and cherished.

Though she surely had hectic days, I never once saw her without a smile. Whether my daughter carried a bulky violin case or was running late, Dana always found a way to help, never once showing impatience. She even took time to stop in front of homes for busy parents like me. Thanks to her, I was able to manage my schedule with a bit more ease and a lot less worry.

My child started school in kindergarten and is now in third grade. Over those four years, I witnessed something remarkable—Dana’s unwavering cheerfulness. As an educator myself, I understand how hard it can be to maintain composure on long, stressful days. Yet Dana managed to radiate joy and calm every single morning. Through her, I learned something powerful: professionalism, when done with love and respect, can be deeply transformative—not just for the person doing the work, but for everyone they encounter.

The children in our neighborhood, my own daughter included, are all heartbroken to see her go. My daughter even reminded me: “Please write her a card and prepare a gift!” Children know authenticity. They know when someone loves them. Dana was that person.

In a world that can sometimes feel rushed, cold, and indifferent, Dana reminded us all that kindness matters. Her way of doing her job—full of dignity, care, and joy—has made our mornings better and our lives brighter. She wasn’t just transporting our children. She was lifting us all, quietly, with her presence.

And so I want to say thank you, Miss Dana. Thank you for your patience, your kindness, and your smile. I will miss seeing you wave from the yellow bus every morning. I will miss the boost of energy your warmth gave me for the rest of the day. And I hope you know just how much your small, daily acts of love have meant to our family.
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The world is a better place because of people like you.
Wishing you all the happiness, success, and love that you so deserve.

Image by Victoria Liu