Before the sun rises and long after the final bell rings, Lisa Rice is already at work - pouring her heart into the halls and roadways that serve the students of Haw Creek Elementary School.
For six years, Lisa has been part of the Buncombe County Schools family. Four of those years, she has been behind the wheel of a bright yellow school bus, safely transporting students to and from school. But to Lisa, it’s never just been about the route.
Her “why” is simple and pure.
“I do it for the kids out of love,” Lisa shared. “I feel like I have the best job there is.”
That love is evident in every space she touches. As a custodian, Lisa helps create a clean, welcoming environment where students can learn and grow. As a bus driver, she is often the first smile students see in the morning and the last reassuring wave they receive in the afternoon.
Principal Christen Davidson says Lisa’s impact reaches far beyond her job description.
“Lisa is one of the hardest working members at Haw Creek Elementary,” she said. “She brings warmth, kindness, and a friendly smile to everything she does. She shows up every single day ready to support our students, and she truly knows them.”
And that’s what sets Lisa apart - she truly knows them. She knows which students need an extra word of encouragement before a big test. She notices when someone is quieter than usual. She celebrates their milestones, their growth, and their victories. Whether she’s sweeping hallways or steering through early morning fog, her focus remains the same: the children.
During Love the Bus Week, we celebrate the hearts behind the wheel. We celebrate the steady hands, the watchful eyes, and the compassionate spirits who ensure students arrive safely each day.
To Lisa, and to all the incredible bus drivers across Buncombe County Schools, thank you for going the extra mile for our students. Your care keeps our community moving forward.
