Peace River School Division (PRSD) has handed out its annual Transportation Award of Excellence.
And this year, it goes to Helen Schmidt, a school bus driver from the Grimshaw area.
Helen Schmidt is awarded this year’s Transportation Award of Excellence for the PRSD. Superintendent Paul Bennett (Left) and Support Services Director John Przybylski presented her the award in Fairview. (Photo/PRSD)
Schmidt, who’s worked for the division since 2008, said in a news release how she felt when she heard that she had won.
“It was a surprise,” Schmidt said. “It’s an extra thank-you and it makes me feel appreciated.”
She says she first started driving a bus as a way to spend more time with her kids, as well as a way to help out more in the community.
“I love driving the bus,” she said. “I love seeing the kids, both hearing about and being a part of their lives. Kids are amazing, and along the way, they teach you things.
“I’m lucky to have 25 to 30 of them on the bus that I learn from every day,” Schmidt continued. “They make me smile.”
The award celebrates the dedication and commitment of transportation staff within the PRSD.
Schmidt received the award on Tuesday, August 29, 2017 at Fairview High School from Superintendent Paul Bennett and Support Services Director John Przybylski.
Board Chairperson Darren Kuester says trustees were thrilled to congratulate Schmidt on receiving this award.
“School bus drivers are such an important part of the education system,” said Kuester. “They serve students, their families, staff and communities as a whole.
“Both of my parents were school bus drivers,” he continued. “So I can truly appreciate the impact they have, as well as the care, time and passion they put forth toward the important job they do.”
Transportation Coordinator Crystal Gordey says comment from parents regarding Schmidt’s performance says it all.
“She is a wonderful person,” said Gordey. “She’s a fantastic school bus driver, and is very deserving of this award.
“(Helen) makes sure her safety training is completed on time,” she continued. “She rarely needs to cancel her run, and last year, she even served on the PRSD Bus Driver Safety Steering Committee.”
– Posted by BET
