Job Details

Position                               Bus Professional - Orleans/Saranac                                   

Classification H.S. 01-04  ($12.41 - $13.54 - $14.66 - $15.68)   Hours   20–29/wk.      

Work Weeks__32      Supervisor  Bus Staff Supervisor  Positions Supervised None  

Essential Function of Job:

Bus Professionals work primarily on school busses to transport preschool-aged children to and from Head Start Centers, transition students between the bus and the care of the staff members in the center, and ensure the safety of all passengers and bystanders at all times. Bus Professionals without a CDL may be assigned to act as the second adult on a bus. Bus Professionals with a CDL may be assigned to drive a bus or act as the second adult on a bus. The work performed by the Bus Professionals allows children to attend high-quality early childhood education programs who might not otherwise be able due to transportation barriers.

Examples of Work:

(Any one position may not include all the duties listed nor do the listed examples include all tasks which may be found in the positions of this class.)

1. All Bus Professionals will:
   1. Act in accordance with established policies and protocols to keep the safety of the vehicle’s occupants uppermost in mind at all times.
   2. Ensure that children in the agency’s care are only released to authorized individuals, as noted on individual child’s Child Information Record.
   3. Maintain cleanliness and general maintenance of the bus.
   4. Proper implementation of relevant Head Start procedures, including transitioning children from the bus to the center and visa versa.
   5. Maintain good rapport with parents/guardians and other staff members by acting in a professional manner and using constructive communication.
   6. Use positive methods of discipline to maintain order in the bus.
   7. Responsible for educational activities of children during bus route.
   8. Notify supervisor in advance if unable to work during a scheduled time and assist in obtaining alternate personnel during absences.
   9. Perform a minimum of four bus evacuations each school year.
2. In addition to the “Examples of Work” listed above, Bus Professionals with a CDL will also:
   1. Drive safely with participants' well-being in mind
   2. Complete pre-trip inspections on the vehicle.
   3. Accurately record mileage, gas purchases, oil checks, driving time, etc.
   4. Report any mechanical or driving problem in manner prescribed by supervisor.
   5. Report any issue or changes required in the route due to road closures or safety concerns.
3. All Bus Professionals will perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements of Work:

1. All Bus Professionals must:
   1. Be willing and capable to assist participants on or off the bus.
   2. Be able to lift small children (approximately 50lbs) if necessary.
   3. Satisfactory review of Criminal History Check and DHHS Clearance.
   4. Successfully pass a physical examination and tuberculosis test.
   5. Have a valid Driver’s License.
   6. Attend required safety and medical trainings.
2. Bus Professionals with a CDL must also:
   1. Successfully complete the Michigan School Bus Driver Safety Education Course. -
   2. Successfully complete Continuing Education Courses.
   3. Completion of Safety Related trainings; and
   4. Department of Transportation Physical including drug testing.

3. Effective, January 31, 2022, the Office of Head Start (OHS) requires all Head Start staff to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19. Exemptions may be granted for individuals who request and receive an exemption from vaccination because of a:

   • Medical condition, or medical necessity requires a delay in vaccination, as documented by a licensed medical practitioner (as a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act)
   • Sincerely held religious belief, practice, or observance (established under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964).

   Those who are granted an exemption for one of the reasons listed above are required to undergo weekly testing for current SARS COV-2 infection.

   Aside from those who are granted exemptions for one of the reasons above, there is no testing option as an alternative to the vaccine requirement.

Required Minimum Training and Experience:

1. Bus Professionals must have:
   1. a high school diploma or equivalent;
   2. knowledge of area roads; and
   3. experience in transporting children.
2. Bus Professionals with a CDL must also:
   1. Have a valid CDL, Class C or B License, with “P” and “S” endorsements the State of Michigan;
   2. Have a driving record that is acceptable to the agency; and
   3. Have no more than 6 active points on his or her personal driving record as determined by the State of Michigan.