When Duty Calls School Superintendent Steps Up to Drive the Bus Amid Staff Shortage

Dr. Burmeister’s bold move set off a ripple effect, galvanizing principals, teachers, and staff alike to rise to the occasion with the same sense of resolve.

School bus driver shortage

The pandemic swept across the globe in late 2019, leaving no sector untouched including education. Over the past few years, both school systems and transportation departments have grappled with a critical shortfall of bus drivers. This widespread disruption, triggered by a global health crisis, deeply impacted lives across continents and our nation was no exception.

The pandemic cast a long shadow over countless industries, and the education sector was no exception. In the wake of the global crisis that emerged in late 2019, school systems and transportation departments have been plagued by an ongoing shortage of bus drivers. This ripple effect of disruption extended far and wide, deeply unsettling daily life across the world and our nation felt the impact just as sharply.

Meanwhile, bus drivers were forced to pivot, seeking out alternative sources of livelihood. Many transitioned into new roles some within the transportation field, others venturing into entirely different industries to make ends meet.

With schools now back in session, bringing former drivers onboard has proven to be an uphill battle one that’s sparked a nationwide shortfall. In a scramble to bridge the gap, others stepped forward, though the efforts still fell short. Massachusetts called in the National Guard, while in , teachers and coaches took the wheel, driving buses before the first bell rang.

Full-Time Superintendent. Part-Time Behind the Wheel.

In Kersey, Colorado, the man who stepped up was their school district superintendent.

Dr. Jeremy Burmeister serves as the superintendent of Platte Valley RE-7 School District but his mornings begin far from the boardroom. Before stepping into his administrative role, he climbs behind the wheel of a yellow school bus, transporting students to class. Clad in a sharp coat and tie, his professional attire stands in stark contrast to the driver’s seat he occupies making for an unexpected yet inspiring sight.

Each day kicks off with routine safety inspections, followed by the familiar hum of the engine as he begins his route, greeting students with a sense of duty and quiet determination.

Answer to bus driver shortage

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“It matters to me, in this role whether praised or criticized to lead from the front,” he shared with 9News.

A different purpose

His second reason carried a touch of sentiment.

“I genuinely enjoy it. It gives me a chance to connect with the kids,” he said. That simple truth is reflected in the way he interacts with every student who steps onto his bus.

He welcomes each child with a warm greeting as they step onto the bus. And when it’s time to part ways, he sends them off with a kind reminder “Have a great day. Give it your best in school.”

Reviews from students

Still, the students thought it was pretty cool. They appreciated how he greeted them each morning with kindness, chatting about school and showing genuine interest—it didn’t go unnoticed. That courtesy, they said, more than made up for his driving skills, which they described as “just okay.” He laughed, admitting the review was fair enough.

Dr. Burmeister doesn’t drive the bus daily only when his schedule allows. But he confessed that on the days he does, it’s the highlight of his routine. For him, it’s more than just a ride it’s a rare window into the lives of the students. Listening to their stories, their schoolday chatter, and everyday moments offers a deeper connection one that quietly informs his role as district superintendent.

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