Employees working in KCSOS’s Transportation Department came together today to recognize the impact of their work for children in Kern County. With close to two million total driving miles, they had a lot to celebrate. Bus drivers, transportation aides, and even dispatchers who step in when needed, play a unique and crucial role in the lives of the children they serve. They are often the first and last adult a child sees during their school day. With thousands of children boarding KCSOS buses daily, this annual celebration is a joyful way to acknowledge the indispensable efforts of these employees.
That’s why, in conjunction with the California Highway Patrol, KCSOS’s Transportation Department awarded bus drivers who have driven for at least ten years, or a minimum of 100,000 miles, without a preventable accident, with their coveted CHP Safe Driving Certificates. KCSOS’s Safe Driving Pins were also awarded.
“To put 100,000 miles of safe driving into perspective, it’s roughly equivalent to circling the Earth four times or driving coast-to-coast across the United States over 30 times,” said Transportation Director James McClelland. “Achieving this milestone without a single preventable accident is a testament to the skill, dedication, and unwavering focus of our bus drivers.”
This year’s CHP Award recipients include:
CHP 100,000-mile award
Isabel Ruiz, Dleisa Owens, Letisia Navajas, and Nicole Hayes
CHP 200,000-mile award
Patricia Pulido and Maria Urena-Nunez
CHP 300,000-mile award
Raymond Paloma
CHP 400,000-mile award
Marleny Reyes
Join us in celebrating these incredible employees for keeping Kern children safe.
By Jennifer Bryan
Jennifer Bryan joined Kern County Superintendent of Schools in 2021 as a Communications Specialist. As a creative and motivated marketing communications specialist, she has a special knack for storytelling and content creation. Born and raised in Kern County, Jennifer has worked in major industries within the region such as agriculture and oil and gas before she made the transition to education.