Columbia Public Schools still seeking more bus drivers after long struggle with shortages

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Columbia Public Schools' transportation provider is still looking to hire bus drivers nearly three years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic that has been blamed for staffing shortages nationwide.

CPS is still looking for 25 drivers according to a post on the district's website. CPS contracts with Student Transportation of America to provide transportation services.

Starting wages begin at $18.50 per hour, with opportunities to drive morning, afternoon, summer work and charter shifts.

Last year CPS struggled to find drivers for extracurricular activities because of the shortage.

In September 2022, CPS was hiring employees and parents to serve as drivers and cover bus routes, with STA leasing buses out.

STA is offering prospective drivers the ability to receive paid CDL training, with the opportunity to receive a CDL license in three to four weeks.