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Bus drivers thank Ventura Unified trustees for two‑year push to expand full‑time routes and benefits
Summary
Dozens of current and former school bus drivers told the board the district's move to eight‑hour positions with grounds work has improved recruitment, given them access to insurance and allowed drivers to keep working and supporting families. Several speakers shared personal stories of health and family benefits tied to full‑time status.
Multiple school bus drivers used the public‑comment period to thank trustees for moving to eight‑hour positions that include benefits, describing a recruitment uptick and personal health and family impacts.
"One of the benefits of being able to do these eight hours is that I get free insurance through the district. This is huge for me," said bus driver Fatima Najib, who said insurance allowed her to undergo bilateral cataract surgery and restore her vision. Other drivers described moving from other companies to Ventura Unified because of the eight‑hour schedule and the ability to supplement their day with grounds work.
Speakers including Nathan Traml, Noel, Eric Delgado, Michael Davis and John Gustiffson said better pay, full‑time hours and benefits had improved retention and morale. Several said having more stable schedules allowed them to take students on longer field trips and provide additional services, and they urged trustees to preserve full‑time positions amid budget pressures.
Trustees thanked drivers for their comments; trustees and staff said they appreciated the retention gains and noted concern about broader budget constraints that will shape future staffing decisions.
