Our bus drivers and monitors are an essential part of many students’ education, ensuring they get to and from school safely. Drivers and monitors are the first people in the district the students come into contact with daily, and it falls to them to help students have a great start and end to each school day and activity. USD 503 is thankful for all they do. Throughout this week we will be featuring our wonderful drivers and monitors, and sharing a little about them.
Today we are featuring Amber Klonowski and Karesa Jackson.
Amber Klonowski is the bus driver for bus P4, also known as “the red bus.” She has been a driver for 4 years. Something she wants people to know about her: “”I love animals. I have two cats. I love to sew. During COVID I sewed masks for the hospital and (all the kids) on the school bus.”
Her favorite thing about her job: “I love the kids and knowing that the kids are safe.”
Karessa Jackson is a bus monitor, a position she has been serving in for four years. Outside of this job, she also works part-time as a care-giver, and watches a 14-month-old so her mother can attend college classes. Something she wants other people to know about her is that her favorite thing to do is be a grandma. “And, to make things for friends and family. I’m kind of crafty. I can make towel animals.”
Jackson’s favorite thing about being a bus monitor is the kids. “I get the chance to make a difference in their days, and I get paid for it. Plus, being a part of Rick’s transportation department feels like having an extended family.”