Buncombe County Schools bus driver Donna Edwards was surprised to find a lot of grown ups waiting as she pulled into the bus lane at the Progressive Education Program (PEP) and opened her door.
BCS Superintendent Dr. Rob Jackson, Transportation Director Jeremy Stowe, PEP principal Dr. Thea Wilson, assistant principal Dr. Wendy Hannah, and other bus drivers and transportation assistants gathered to surprise Donna with the news that she is the 2025 Buncombe County Schools Bus Driver of the Year.
“I am shocked. When I was asked 23 years ago to start driving a bus, my husband wouldn’t even let me drive his truck,” Ms. Edwards joked. “PEP has been such a blessing. The people here are like my family, and I can truly say I love my job.”
“We are so thankful for Ms. Edwards' service to her students here at PEP, but also to her neighbors in need,” said Dr. Jackson. “As Hurricane Helene moved into our area and drivers were needed to help get families to safety, she was among our drivers who answered the call and sprang into action.”
Ms. Edwards was nominated for the honor by Dr. Hannah and selected by teammates across the school system.
“The Bus Driver of the Year is a true celebration of all our amazing drivers,” said Stowe. “We were blessed with so many nominations of incredible drivers who not only safely get kids to and from school, but provide compassion and care for kids each and every day. We love to celebrate their service, and we are so proud of Donna Edwards for being a positive presence for our students each and every day.”
