School Bus Driver @ Guadalupe Center Charter Schools

Guadalupe Centers Charter Schools (GCCS) serves more than 1,600 students from PreK–12 and is a free, open-enrollment public charter school system located in Kansas City, Missouri. Over 97% of our students identify as Latinx, and many are bilingual or English learners. Our network includes Guadalupe Centers Elementary School, Guadalupe Centers Middle School, and Guadalupe Centers High School.

GCCS grew out of Guadalupe Centers' educational programs — part of the longest continuously operating agency serving the Latinx community in the United States since 1919. Our deep community roots shape our mission: to prepare all students academically, socially, and emotionally for college, career, and life success.

Why Work at GCCS

Students & Families

Our teachers form strong relationships with students and families through a community-driven approach. The connection between our schools and Guadalupe Centers' historic mission fosters trust and collaboration that support student success.

Staff Autonomy

GCCS teachers are empowered to innovate. We value professional judgment and encourage creative, research-based classroom practices that meet the needs of diverse learners.

Coaching & Development

Each staff member collaborates with their instructional coach and building leadership to set annual professional growth goals aligned to district priorities. Our development model focuses on reflection, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Competitive Benefits

• Competitive salary aligned to experience and certification level
• Relocation stipend (for qualifying hires)
• Bilingual stipend (Spanish-speaking staff)
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education (up to lifetime cap per GCCS policy)
• Mental health and well-being support through expanded employee assistance and wellness programs
• 403(b) retirement match up to 5% (for eligible staff)
• Perfect attendance incentive program (up to $1,600 annually)
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage

Summary

The School Bus Driver is responsible for the safe and efficient transportation of students on assigned routes and school-related activities in compliance with Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) regulations, state and local laws, and GCCS policies. The driver ensures the safety, welfare, and orderly conduct of students from home to school and return, while maintaining required documentation and performing pre-trip inspections.

Reports to: Director of Transportation

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Safe Student Transportation

• Operate assigned school bus safely along established routes and schedules, adhering to all traffic laws and DESE pupil transportation standards.
• Load and unload students at designated stops, using proper safety procedures and signals, including activation of warning lights and stop arm.
• Maintain control and discipline of students during transit, ensuring respectful and orderly behavior.

Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance

• Conduct daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the bus and safety equipment.
• Report mechanical issues or safety concerns promptly to the Transportation Supervisor.

Compliance and Documentation

• Maintain accurate records, including inspection logs, mileage, time sheets, and incident reports.
• Abide by all DESE, FMCSA, Missouri Department of Revenue, and district policies, including drug and alcohol testing and physical examination requirements.
• Ensure that all required certificates, licenses, and endorsements are current and on file.

Training and Professional Development

• Complete required annual school bus driver training (minimum 8 hours) provided by GCCS or approved provider.
• Participate in additional safety programs and in-service trainings as assigned.

Emergency Preparedness and Safety

• Follow established emergency, evacuation, and accident procedures.
• Communicate immediately with appropriate personnel in case of delays, accidents, or student issues.

Customer Service & Communication

• Provide courteous, professional communication with students, parents, school personnel, and the public.
• Report behavior concerns and safety issues to the school or transportation authorities.

Other Duties

• Assist with transportation for field trips, athletic events, and other approved school activities as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of safe, efficient student transportation.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous experience driving large vehicles or working with youth is desirable.

Licenses & Certifications (Required)

• Valid Missouri Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements.
• Meet DESE and Missouri Department of Revenue school bus licensing requirements, including written and driving examinations.
• Current physical examination certificate as required by state regulations.
• Successful completion of background checks and fingerprinting procedures.

Skills & Abilities

• Demonstrated safe and defensive driving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain order, enforce rules, and promote a positive environment.
• Reliable, punctual, and capable of meeting scheduled routes and deadlines.

Working Conditions

This position requires frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions, extended periods of sitting while driving, and interaction with children of various ages. Drivers must be able to respond appropriately in emergencies and comply with safety standards at all times.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform bus safety inspections, assist boarding students, including those with special needs, and handle emergency procedures when required.

Application Process

Please complete an online application at https://www.gck12.org/o/gc/page/work-for-gccs.

Attach your resume, cover letter, transcripts, and certification (if applicable).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Guadalupe Centers Charter Schools (GCCS) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strongly encourage applications from women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, or veteran status. We also prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forward complaints or participate in investigations of discrimination.