PENDER COUNTY, NC - Pender County Schools is making significant strides in improving the recruitment, retention, and overall experience of its bus drivers. Thanks to a funding decision by the Pender County Board of Commissioners, the district has increased bus driver pay and invested in critical safety upgrades that will benefit both students and staff.
The starting hourly wage for Pender County Schools bus drivers will increase from $16.26 to $17.75. This adjustment makes the district more competitive with surrounding areas and recognizes the essential role bus drivers play in safely transporting students each day. Additionally, bus monitors will also receive a pay increase, further supporting the dedicated staff who help ensure student safety.
“This is a significant step forward for Pender County Schools,” said Superintendent Dr. Brad Breedlove. “We need to listen to our bus drivers because they are at the grassroots level. Their feedback has been invaluable in shaping these improvements, and this wage increase allows us to be more competitive in recruiting and retaining quality drivers.”
Beyond pay increases, Pender County Schools is also enhancing safety and communication by equipping all buses, schools, and the transportation department with upgraded radio systems. This investment, totaling $400,000, will ensure that drivers have direct communication and support no matter where they are on their routes, ultimately improving efficiency and safety for students and staff.
“We are grateful to the Board of Commissioners for recognizing the importance of these investments,” Dr. Breedlove said. “The improved radio system not only enhances the safety of our transportation network but also provides peace of mind for our drivers, knowing that they are supported in real-time.”
The funding allocation was approved by the Board of Commissioners during their recent meeting, where they voted to direct over half of a $1.3 million fund toward these transportation improvements. The remaining funds will be used to upgrade 2,000 Chromebooks for Pender County Schools students.