October 22, 2026 — As people across the country celebrate Bus Driver Appreciation Week, schools across the Cobb County School District are recognizing the dedicated drivers who help students start and end their school days with a safe ride. 

More than 70,000 Cobb students ride the bus to school each day. With more than 800 bus drivers serving over 37,000 bus stops, Cobb Schools' Transportation Department plays a vital role in getting students safely to and from school every day.

From school celebrations to special recognition by district leaders, Cobb Schools came together this week to show bus drivers just how much they are appreciated.

Board Chair Randy Scamihorn and Vice Chair David Chastain kicked off the celebrations by greeting drivers and handing out care packages, showing that their contributions are appreciated by students and district leaders alike. 

"I couldn't believe it when they walked up and told us we were being recognized today because I've never been singled out for anything like that before. I try to do a good job, so it is meaningful. It means a lot," said Phillip Brock, who has spent 13 years helping Cobb students get to and from school safely.

While the recognition means a great deal to drivers like Brock, many say the students they serve are what make the job especially rewarding. 

For Cobb's bus drivers, it's about more than transportation. It's about helping students get to school safely so they can learn and succeed. 

"It's definitely the kids. There's no question about it. Driving a bus, you know, you can drive a truck, you can drive a car, but it's the kids that make this special. Seeing their faces in the morning, giving them high fives," said James Wilson, who has driven a Cobb school bus for more than nine years. 

At Lassiter High School, the Automotive Club also found a special way to recognize the school's bus drivers.

The student-led celebration brought energy and excitement to a cold morning as Lassiter students greeted bus drivers with signs of appreciation. For members of the Automotive Club, the event was an opportunity to recognize the people who help make their education possible every day. 

"School bus driver day is a day that we can all come together, especially here in the automotive club, and give back to the very important bus drivers that have been here every day, making sure that students get to school on time. If their parents can't bring them. So, they're a really important part of the school system. Without them, we wouldn't be able to have the education that we have," said Lucas Fiuza Lima, founder of Lassiter's Automotive Club.

In addition to the surprise greeting, Lassiter's bus drivers received care packages as another gesture of appreciation for their work.

As Cobb Schools celebrates the drivers who transport students safely each day, bus drivers are also reminding motorists that everyone has a role in protecting students on the road. 

"Be kind, be considerate. When you see the stop sign, please stop because kids' safety is important. Just be kind to the kids," said bus driver Jermaine Brown. 

From early morning pickups to afternoon drop-offs, Cobb's bus drivers make a difference in the lives of thousands of students and families. Their dedication helps ensure students arrive at school ready to learn and return home safely. 

Join us in thanking all of our Cobb Schools bus drivers for going the extra mile for students every day!

To learn more about Cobb's Transportation Department, click HERE.