Amanda Pevey
Elmore Autauga News
The Elmore County Board of Education approved a revised sign-on bonus structure for new CDL school bus drivers Tuesday night, aiming to strengthen recruitment efforts and provide incentives earlier in the school year.
During the board’s July 21 meeting, Board Member Wendell Saxon presented the proposal to fellow board members and Superintendent Richard Dennis, recommending changes to how the district distributes its existing $1,000 sign-on bonus for newly hired bus drivers.
Under the previous policy, new CDL bus drivers received the full $1,000 bonus after completing their first full year of employment.
Saxon said providing a portion of the bonus sooner could make the positions more attractive to prospective employees while still encouraging drivers to remain with the district throughout the school year.
“My thought is to get these folks interested in working,” Saxon told the board. “They’ll get $500 after they’ve worked 90 workdays, and then they’ll get the other $500 after another 90 workdays at the end of the school year.”
Under the approved change, newly hired CDL bus drivers for the 2026-27 school year will receive a $500 bonus after completing their first 90 workdays, which is expected to be included in the December paycheck. Drivers who remain employed through an additional 90 workdays will receive the remaining $500 in their May paycheck.
Saxon said the proposal is designed to reward new employees earlier rather than requiring them to wait until the end of their first year to receive the full incentive.
“I think it would help us in hiring,” Saxon said.
Following the discussion, Superintendent Richard Dennis expressed support for the recommendation.
“I think that’s a good idea,” Dennis said.
The board unanimously approved the amended sign-on bonus structure.
The change comes as school districts across Alabama continue working to recruit and retain qualified CDL bus drivers, who play a critical role in safely transporting students to and from school each day. By restructuring the incentive, Elmore County school leaders hope the earlier bonus payments will encourage more applicants to join the district while rewarding those who remain throughout the school year.
