Who has the authority to assign a substitute bus driver?

The authority to assign a substitute bus driver lies with your supervisor. Supervisors are responsible for overseeing the operations of the bus fleet and ensuring that all bus routes are adequately staffed. This includes making decisions about substitutes when the regular driver is unavailable due to illness, absence, or other reasons. Supervisors typically have the knowledge of schedules, staffing needs, and protocols to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of students.

In contrast, a principal may have influence in school matters but typically does not handle day-to-day transportation assignments. Another bus driver may assist in managing routes but generally does not have the authority to make decisions regarding staffing and substitute assignments. The transportation department director may oversee broader operations but does not typically assign substitutes on an individual basis; that responsibility usually falls to the immediate supervisors who are more familiar with the daily operations and specific needs of the bus routes.