Massachusetts Faces Urgent School Bus Driver Shortage: Perks Now Include Sign-On Bonuses and Paid CDL Training
Massachusetts is experiencing a serious shortage of school bus drivers, and the ripple effects are being felt by school districts, parents, and students across the state. With student transportation services stretched thin, many districts are struggling to maintain reliable routes and on-time schedules.
In response, school transportation companies and districts are stepping up their efforts to recruit and retain qualified drivers. Among the most notable incentives are sign-on bonuses, often ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, and paid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training, which can be a major barrier to entry for new drivers.
In addition to financial perks, school bus drivers in Massachusetts often enjoy benefits like part-time hours, weekends and holidays off, and the opportunity to serve their local communities. These roles are especially attractive to retirees, stay-at-home parents, and those looking for a stable, public service-oriented job.
Still, despite the incentives, the demand remains high. Many schools report that routes are being consolidated or delayed due to the driver shortage, and the problem is especially acute in rural areas.
If you’re considering a career shift or know someone who might be interested, now is the time to take advantage of free CDL training programs and competitive hiring packages offered by employers across the state.