Gale Jones has been a dedicated school bus driver for Union County Public Schools for 25 years. Driven by her love for working with children and the need to align her schedule with her children’s, Jones chose this rewarding career path. It allowed her to balance family life while ensuring the safety of countless students.
In June, her career reached a new milestone when she won First Place at the State School Bus ROADeo. Held at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, this exciting event brought together more than 30 of the best school bus drivers across North Carolina. The competition included a challenging obstacle course and a written test to display the drivers' skills and knowledge.
Jones' impressive performance earned her the title of the best school bus driver in the state, a prestigious honor that underscores her exceptional skill and dedication. Following this achievement, Jones represented North Carolina at the 2024 School Bus Driver International Safety Competition in Austin, Texas, on June 29-30.
"Ms. Jones has been a dedicated and well-respected driver for Union County since 1999, and we are all proud that she had the opportunity to showcase her excellent skills at these levels," said Brian Joyner, the director of transportation.
This year marked the first time in four years that Union County participated in the event, and they were excited and proud to have one of their drivers move on to compete in the internationals, representing all of North Carolina.
"I've participated in ROADeos for about 15 years now. Every time UCPS held it, I was in it. I've made it to state before but never to international," she said. "That was my dream to win state and make it to the next level. I did it and feel so honored."
Jones continued to showcase her exceptional driving skills, gaining valuable experience by networking with other drivers, exchanging ideas, and learning from peers across the nation and Canada.
"I met a young lady from New Jersey. We became friends and have connected several times since I've been back. There were a lot of different school districts, so I learned the similarities and differences in some of the rules," she said.
Jones placed 24 out of 32.
"It was a challenge to drive a bus different from the one I drive every day, but I enjoyed the experience," she said. "I don't know if I'll compete next year, we'll see. I'm just happy to have met a goal I had set for myself."
As the first day of school approaches, she looks forward to returning to her cherished role, welcoming students and creating a safe and supportive environment for them. Jones drives for the Parkwood cluster and has had the same group of students for about six years.
"Every morning, I greet them with a smile, and every afternoon, I smile and say see you tomorrow. I've even set up reward systems for some more challenging kids. They respond well to it," she said.
Jones knows she has made a lasting impact on the students because they always notice that rare occasion when she is absent. Before her wedding in April, she let them know she would be gone for a few days. Their heartfelt questions, asking if she really had to leave, warmed her heart.
"We do more than drive a bus. We work with children. If you love those two things, then this is a career for you," she said. "My coworkers are like family, too. Having that and the kids is what makes me want to come to work every day."
Jones is looking forward to reconnecting with her students and the many parents she has built relationships with over her years of service. An extra special bonus for her is having her grandson ride on her bus, making each day even more memorable.
"I stay for the kids. They are the main reason I'm still here. I love getting to know them," said Jones. "Some of the kids now boarding my bus are the children of parents who rode with me when they were young."
08/05/2024
