LATINAHERSTORY

latinaherstory

For millions of Americans, the morning begins at the bus stop. Opening the doors, to the first steps of the day are School Bus Drivers and bus personnel. This month’s Latinaherstory feature is Tiffany Hernandez, a proud Puerto Rican, School Bus Driver, Buffalo Public School graduate, Buffalonian, and mom. Tiffany and her School Bus Driver colleagues hold up one of the pillars of our education system, busing. Each School Bus Driver represents a family and unique story. 

Many of the stories are held by women. And their families directly benefit when School Bus Drivers are highly valued as more than half (54.3%) of state and local government school bus drivers are women. And increasingly Latinas benefit as 15.3% of bus drivers identify as Hispanic or Latino, nationally. 

Tiffany drives locally here in Western New York and is one of the trusted few who know how to turn the corner just so through sun, rain, and Buffalo snow. Driving for over ten years and supporting her four beautiful children as a strong provider, her story began as a young mother. Now, she’s an expert driver and the perfect ambassador for an amazing position with so much opportunity to grow. 

When asked about what she enjoys most about her role, Tiffany shared: 

“One of the most rewarding parts about being a school bus driver is the chance to make a positive impact on students' lives. You get to be a friendly and familiar face that starts and ends their school day, providing a sense of stability and safety. It's heartwarming to see the kids grow and develop over time, and you often become an important part of their daily routine.”

When asked about her daily schedule, she shared:

“The schedule of a school bus driver can vary, but it follows a consistent routine.We usually start our day early, often around 5:15 to 6:30 AM. Before picking up students, we perform a pre-trip inspection of the bus to ensure it's safe to operate and it can take about 15 mins. We pick up students from 2 to 3 schools every morning. 

After the morning route, we have a break. Some drivers may have additional duties, such as transporting students for field trips or other school activities, but many have a few hours off during the middle of the day. This is perfect for women with children so they have time to run errands and go to appointments. Also helps people who have businesses or other matters to handle. Another pre-trip inspection is conducted before starting the afternoon route.The afternoon route begins with picking students up from schools between 2 to 3:30 PM.”

When asked about the people she met along the way, she shared: 

“I love that you can meet a range of people. Bus drivers are entrepreneurs for real! I have had the chance to meet retired Police officers, firefighters, bodybuilders, mechanics, plumbers, construction workers, teachers, and accountants. It's great to have such a diverse workplace and it can come in handy. It's not always what you know, it's who you know! I have met Limo drivers, tour guide operators, daycare owners, restaurant owners, hair stylists, and lots of women who love driving and have CDLS!!!” 

Tiffany is about 5’5 with brown eyes a smile like the sunrise. She earned her CDL license like a queen balancing the duties of supermom and student. A CDL is a commercial driver's license and a (CDL) is required to operate large or heavy vehicles. Tiffany attended a class to prepare her for the rest of the process. 

If you are new to this, if you already have a CDL, or if you are interested in learning more about becoming a School Bus Driver, New York State DMV has your back. Just visit https://dmv.ny.gov/become-a-school-bus-driver and start your journey behind the wheel and on the road to success in Ingles and cuando queras in Espanol.