NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC - Six Pender County Schools bus drivers put their skills to the test at the 2024-2025 School Bus Roadeo, held on Monday, March 24th. The annual competition, hosted this year by New Hanover County Schools at Ashley High School, brought together PCS drivers alongside 16 competitors from NHCS. The event provided an opportunity for camaraderie and competition while showcasing the expertise required to operate school buses safely and efficiently.
New Hanover County Schools did a fantastic job organizing the event, extending a warm welcome to all participants and ensuring they were well taken care of throughout the day. The competition, overseen by the DMV School Bus team, challenged drivers to navigate a series of difficult obstacles designed to test their precision, patience, and driving expertise.
This year’s Roadeo featured four first-time participants and two returning veterans from Pender County Schools. Their performances were impressive, and we are incredibly proud of their efforts. Below are the PCS participants and their final standings:
PCS Bus Driver Results:
Teresa Coston – 2nd Overall, 1st for PCS
A seasoned driver for South Topsail Elementary, Ms. Coston once again proved her excellence behind the wheel, earning the top spot among PCS participants for the second consecutive year. Her commitment to her students was evident as she even left the event early to ensure she was back in time for her afternoon route.Mary Pair – 10th Overall, 2nd for PCS
In her first-ever Roadeo, Ms. Pair, a dedicated driver and instructional assistant at Penderlea School, made a strong impression. Her enthusiasm and skill were on full display, earning her well-deserved recognition.Tiffany Smith & Misty Andrews – Tied for 12th Overall, Tied for 3rd for PCS
Ms. Smith, a pre-K route driver and instructional assistant at Rocky Point Elementary, approached her first Roadeo with composure and grace, making PCS proud.
Ms. Andrews, who serves students at Topsail Middle, Heide Trask High, and Pender Early College High School, showcased her unwavering dedication and positive spirit throughout the event.Dominique Simpson – 19th Overall, 4th for PCS
Ms. Simpson, a driver for Malpass Corner Elementary and West Pender Middle, demonstrated resilience and determination, pushing past first-time nerves to successfully complete the competition.Delanie Mitchell – 20th Overall, 5th for PCS
A teacher at Heide Trask High School who also drives a morning route, Ms. Mitchell's willingness to go the extra mile for PCS students did not go unnoticed.
Each of these drivers took on the challenges of the Roadeo with skill and determination. The event was a great opportunity to highlight the talent and dedication of school bus drivers, and PCS is proud of their efforts.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all who participated and to New Hanover County Schools for hosting such a well-organized event. Congratulations again to our PCS drivers on their strong performances!
