As APS plans to start Hybrid learning for all students, many families are again focusing on the bus drivers, crossing guards, and transportation staff that get students to school safely.
When students come to the ODL, we rely on our dedicated bus drivers to transport kids to the magic that is the Outdoor Lab. The APS transportation team coordinates getting a bus and driver out to the Lab, usually between their normal school runs, every school day. They transport every 3rd, 5th and 7th grade student to the Lab over the school year.
Without a bus and driver, students can’t get to the Outdoor Lab. APS Staff and the Arlington School Board supported the funding of a daily bus to the ODL and added a second bus for 5th grade overnights. (about 40 days a year)
Often, one or two drivers are assigned to the ODL for the year and they have gone above and beyond their normal driving duties to make sure students have a great experience. Even after they retire, some still help at the Outdoor Lab. Former APS bus driver Paul Diehl joined the AOEA board after his career driving students to the Lab and has worked tirelessly for the Outdoor Lab ever since.
Please join the Outdoor Lab, the AOEA and Lab Staff in thanking all bus drivers, crossing guards and transportation staff during the month long Crossing Guard Appreciation and Love the Bus campaign.
