Dowagiac Union Schools looks to hire new Transportation Director

DOWAGIAC, Mich. – With the first day of school just two weeks away, Dowagiac Union Schools say they’re in a much better spot than last year when it comes to transportation.

Tuesday morning, district bus drivers gathered to bid on their routes and finalize transportation plans ahead of the school year.

After struggling with a bus driver shortage last January, the district now has a full team in place but there’s still one key role left to fill.

Now fully staffed, 13 CDL-certified drivers are set to cover 11 routes when buses hit the roads for the 2025-2026 school year, but while the driver seats are filled, the district is now in search of a new Transportation Director after former director Bob Durm left to take a position in South Bend.

A New Transportation Director was hired last week, but reconsidered after a few days and now the role is open again.

The district is now looking to hire a leader with mechanic experience, and a CDL certification.

Superintendent Greg Blomgren says the district’s push to hire, including offering additional incentives and promotions, helped them solve last year’s shortage.

Now, as he begins his second year leading the district, he says his focus is on building a strong culture that starts the moment students step on the bus.

“It doesn’t matter what role you play in our district whether you’re a bus driver, a teacher, a counselor, or an administrator we’re all educators,” said Blomgren. “And the value that they bring to our district is extremely important.”

Teachers return next week to begin preparations, ahead of the first day of school on Monday, August 25.