I have witnessed first-hand, some of the most offensive comments like the one you just read from a former prominent member within the pupil transportation industry. When an incident occurred, I chose not to speak up for fear of rejection even though I was appalled at the degrading comment I observed.

At the time, I was a novice to the world of pupil transportation. I was just thrilled to be in the same room with someone that held such influence. I prepared myself by studying all of the latest articles published by the influencer just in case I had the golden opportunity to hobnob with the elite in the new sector. I was so awestricken that when it was time for introductions, I forgot my name momentarily.

When the outlandish comment was made, it took me initially by shock. Thoughts raced through my head. Why are there all of these people here and yet no one is speaking out? Thoughts continued. Maybe the person was right. Maybe school bus drivers really are clueless simpletons.

Bus drivers everywhere, I want to apologize for allowing myself to be influenced by someone else’s horrible and inaccurate stereotype of you. I let the entire industry down when I did not stop this person. I have spent a long time trying to come up with a way to rectify my inactions. During that time, I took up reading. I learned that several bus drivers have received more degrees and accolades than the aforementioned influencer.

I want to send my gratitude to all school bus drivers. I am not a driver myself, but I feel a stronger connection with you after my experience. Thank you to each and every one of you. You deserve to be treated with more dignity. I hope this publication serves as a lasting testimony to positively change the fundamental issues harbored deep within school transportation.

The best solution I can offer is to tell my experience in hopes to strengthen the moral fibers of our culture. Whatever your position, whatever your salary, you are not entitled to this kind of intolerant behavior towards anyone for any reason at any time. For the record, documentation of their success now shows school bus drivers can know more than you.

Be assertive and speak up if you hear bigoted remarks. We are all vital to the success of the industry and deserve the respect of our colleagues. Choose carefully whom you let influence your decisions, for titles are not always reflective of their character

-Andrew V. Gardner

Andrew combines his experience as a husband and father with the pupil transportation industry along with his previous employment in marketing and sales with a Fortune 500 company.

Interested in Andrew guest blogging for your company? E-mail him today at andy33g@yahoo.com

Republished with permission