What is the primary responsibility of a school bus driver?

The primary responsibility of a school bus driver is to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers. This role is critical because school buses transport children, who depend on the driver to provide a secure environment during their commute to and from school. This involves not only driving safely and legally, but also being vigilant about the behavior of passengers, ensuring that safety protocols are followed, and being prepared to handle emergencies.

While arriving on time is important for maintaining schedules, it does not outweigh the necessity of prioritizing safety. Entertaining passengers may create a friendly atmosphere but is not a fundamental responsibility of the driver. Maintenance of the bus is certainly a part of the driver's duties; however, it is typically a shared responsibility with other staff and mechanics. Ultimately, the driver's central mission is to make sure that every child's journey is safe.