Hemet Unified School District’s (HUSD) Transportation Department held its annual New School Year Orientation on July 29th. All bus drivers, mechanics, and supervisors from the transportation department discussed the employee handbook, driving trends and operations, active shooter training, customer service, and much more! The orientation also included employees from San Jacinto, Perris, Menifee, Val Verde, Bellflower, and El Monte school districts, which Hemet provides services for.
Michael Fogerty, Director of HUSD’s Transportation Department, said this orientation is one of the only times throughout the year the entire department can get together. Approximately 350 employees gathered in the theater at Tahquitz High School to review and prepare for the upcoming school year.
Employees were presented with different scenarios involving an active shooter. They discussed the scenarios in groups and were encouraged by sharing ideas about what they would do in each situation. The instructor provided tips and explained that the decision made would be determined by the proximity of the shooter and other circumstances. The group also discussed the modified procedures authorities are now using.
Employees were also recognized for their service to the department. The four types of awards given to the employees were: Customer Service, Above and Beyond, Pioneer, and Drivers of the Year. Employees who received the Customer Service certificates were thanked by department supervisors for their exemplary customer service to all students, parents, school site staff, and co-workers. Employees received the Above and Beyond certificate for consistently going above and beyond while performing their duties. The Pioneer certificate was given to employees who demonstrated the ability to take a chance and assisting Hemet’s Transportation Department with establishing services in another school district. In addition to these wonderful awards, five employees received the top honor of being name Drivers of the Year.
Hemet Unified’s Transportation Department is the 3rd largest operated fleet in the state. It has received California Association of School Business Official’s (CASBO) Smart Business Award and provides complete home to school services to 15 school districts. If you would like the opportunity to work for this department, please visit the district’s Human Resources job vacancy page for current openings.