Nine years ago Scott Schau retired from his work as police officer and began driving buses for the school district. Since then Schau has been making students’ days, putting a smile on peoples faces, giving heartfelt advice and candy, all while creating memories every day as he drives each of his students to and from school.
Schau drives Bus 25, which takes Horizon Elementary, Monticello Trails and Mill Valley students to and from school. Schau took the job after working as a police officer for 17 years.
Being a bus driver can be hard work at times. Drivers have to leave their homes at about six a.m. every morning.
However, being a bus driver there is still plenty of room to have fun and make the ride more enjoyable. Junior Bianca Pepe enjoys how Schau makes bus rides more enjoyable.
“He’d decorate it for holidays and sometimes hand out candy,” Pepe said. “It made the bus feel more comfortable. It wasn’t just an awkward ride—it felt welcoming.” Although driving a bus is usually positive. Occasionally it can be bittersweet for Schau especially as students start getting their licenses
“I understand it’s a rite of passage,” Schau said. “Sophomore, or junior year, [students] get the joy of having a parking permit, then the parking pass, and [they’re] out here. I did the same thing when I turned 16, I couldn’t wait to drive myself to school. That’s part of it.”
The reason it is a bit sad for Schau is that all of his students mean so much to him.
“Well, all my students are important because, you know, my number one purpose in life on a bus is to keep them safe, Schau said.”I just want to see them succeed.”
Despite no longer riding the bus Schau has still had a positive impact on Pepe.
“A good driver, like Scott, can totally change your day. It makes the ride home something to look forward to” Pepe said.
“Sometimes when I drive to school, I see him, and I’ll wave, Pepe said. “Even though I’m not on the bus anymore, he’ll always be my bus driver.”
For Scott, this is one of his biggest aspirations because he wants his kids to love him and think fondly of their time riding the bus.
“I don’t remember that old guy’s name, but he was nice to me,” Schau said.
