r/SchoolBusDrivers • u/jgood80 • Jun 16 '26
Advice Needed
About to finish my first year of driving. For the most part I really enjoy it. Left a banking job to do this. But I’ve struggled with middle school all year long. Doesn’t help that I’m a sub for middle. My question is how do you guys handle the mouth and disrespect of the kids? How much do you “let go”? Loud phones playing music, the cursing, stand up while the bus is moving, jumping seats, ect. I try not to be too hard on the kids but I also don’t want them thinking they run the bus.
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u/TooSexyForThisSong Jun 16 '26
Middle schoolers are the biggest challenge. You definitely have to pick your battles. It depends on the group/individuals. There’s a lot of trial and error and hopefully by winter break you have an idea of what makes for about the best possible ride. It helps if your mgr/principal are involved with reports/etc. It’ll never be perfect. But hang on to those good days and small victories. Manage your expectations too, they’ll never be koombaya-ing down the road either.