Kaleigh Walker Great Educators, Student Supports

Celebrating School Bus Drivers & Ruby Hensley

The wheels on the school buses that transport KCS students all across the county are carefully and attentively driven by dedicated school bus drivers, including long-time employee Ruby Hensley.

With over three decades of service under her belt, Ruby has become a beloved figure in the lives of countless students who have had the privilege of riding her bus since 1989.

“I love my job, and I love the kids,” Ruby remarks with a warm smile when asked about her journey as a bus driver. “I really do.”

Ruby’s love for her job shines through as she transports students of all ages, from the kindergarteners to the high schoolers. 

While she admits that the elementary kids hold a special place in her heart, Ruby cherishes each interaction with her passengers, no matter their age or grade.

Over the years, Ruby has witnessed the ebb and flow of challenges in her profession, including bus driver shortages. Despite the hurdles, Ruby and her fellow drivers rally together, ensuring that each child reaches their destination safely, even if it means putting in extra effort.

For Ruby, the true reward comes from the bonds she forms with her passengers, many of whom remember her fondly even after they’ve grown up and started families of their own. 

“It’s really nice to know that they still remember me after so many years,” Ruby said. “They’ll come up to me and say, ‘You were the best driver,’ or ‘I missed you driving my bus when you left.'”

One such memorable moment recently occurred when Gabe Scott, a student on Ruby’s bus, invited her to his kindergarten music program at East Knox County Elementary School. 

Gabe, knowing that Ruby would be there for him, eagerly extended the invitation, showcasing the special bond between a caring bus driver and her passenger.

The joy on Gabe’s face as he embraced Ruby after the program spoke volumes about the impact she has had on his life. 

“If I can make one kid happy in a day’s time, I’m happy,” Ruby remarks, her eyes shining with pride.

As Ruby continues her journey behind the wheel, her dedication and love for the children she transports remain unwavering. 

Whether it’s a reassuring smile, a listening ear, or a comforting presence, Ruby Hensley embodies the spirit of School Bus Driver Appreciation Day every day of the year.

Knox County Schools is grateful to Ruby Hensley and all the dedicated bus drivers like her, whose tireless efforts ensure that students arrive safely at their destinations, and whose kindness leaves a lasting impact on the hearts of those they serve.

Kaleigh Walker Community Partners

Miss Patty Shares School Bus Safety Tips and Encourages Community to Answer the Call

Students at schools in Farragut call her Miss Patty, the lady who drives the big yellow school bus.

Patty Braden, a retiree who followed her daughter, son-in-law, and grandsons to Tennessee from California, decided two years ago that she wanted to return to work. Her daughter suggested becoming a school bus driver.

“I thought, ‘Could I drive a school bus?’ Well, I knew I love kids,” she said. “I interviewed, got the job, went to school, and here I am. I love it!”

She especially loves connecting with different age groups and getting to know the names of all 60+ kids each year. She tells them “Happy Birthday” and decorates the bus with holiday decorations. Students sing songs together and share stories on the PA system.

“We have a diverse group of children,” Braden said. “Last year, we learned to count to ten in Chinese, Polish, French, Russian, and Spanish. We just have fun!”

As much fun as she and her passengers have each day, she stresses safety for a tragic reason. Braden lost a young family member due to a car failing to follow school bus laws.

Morgan was crossing the street to get on a bus that was stopped with flashing lights and an extended stop sign. An oncoming car sped past the bus and struck her. 

It is for this reason Braden, like so many others, emphasizes the importance of safety, especially during National School Bus Safety Week. 

In her bus, she ensures cars from all directions are at a complete stop before opening the doors to let students off. 

“I’m probably a little extra cautious when my kids are getting on and off the bus,” Braden said. “We all have busy lives, but people in vehicles have to stop.”

In addition to advocating for school bus safety, she also encourages more people to become bus drivers. Drivers have hours of free time between runs, days off when students are off, and work with amazing students each day. 

“This is giving back to the kids of our futures. We need drivers just like the schools need aids,” Braden said. “Come do a ride-along on a bus to see if you’d like it. We’ll show you what we do. It’s not that bad; it’s actually that good!”

Learn more about how to be a safe driver around school buses here, and find more information about how to become a driver here!