Ride with Pride

When a new K–8 school opened in Johnson City, New York, this year, replacing three neighborhood schools and requiring almost every student to ride the bus to get there, some students had an easy ride. For others, it was a frightening change. Sensing that those students needed support in this new adventure—and that bus drivers would appreciate a hand—the local employees’ association saw an opportunity to step in and help.

With a grant from the National Education Association of New York, the Johnson City Employees Association (JCEA) suited up a “Ride with Pride” team that puts staff members on buses to sit with students and create a sense of community that begins at the bus stop and continues in class.

The students love it because they can connect with employees in a more informal setting, says JCEA President Sue Brazen-King. And the drivers appreciate the additional adult presence and the idea that they’re working as part of a team.

- Desiree Miller