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 serves as the Coordinator of Events Management and Communications at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools. She oversees event strategy and communications initiatives that enhance engagement, elevate organizational storytelling, and support educational programs across Kern County. Beyond event work, she remains passionate about storytelling, using writing and photography to highlight student and educator experiences.