Driver’s actions unexcusable

To the editor

By:
   I am writing in response to the letter to the editor last week from Janet Conlon. While I think it is nice of her to defend her coworker, Mr. Hague, I could not disagree with her more.
   I am a school bus driver, and as a bus driver, I am disgusted and outraged at Mr. Hague’s behavior. His "lapse in judgment" to tell the kids on the bus to stand up, then slam on the brakes is not only reprehensible, it is criminal.
   I honestly could not believe what I was reading, when I read the Beacon’s news article. It shows that not only is Mr. Hague’s judgment seriously impaired, it more then clearly shows that he has no business driving a school bus.
   School bus driving is challenging, there are many simultaneous responsibilities, for up to 54 students per trip, and while Ms. Conlon eludes to in her letter, it is nice to return books, backpacks and jackets, the crutch of the job is safe driving.
   Seatbelts are a state law, they must be worn. They are not an issue on my bus, we simply don’t move until all the students have them buckled. If that requires I get out of my seat and ask a student directly to comply, then that is what I do.
   Kids are kids, There are always a few rebels. But there are procedures for dealing with students like this.
   I have found that kids will try and get away with what you let them. It is important to have clear bus rules and reinforce them everyday. No matter how tiresome that can become.
   It’s no different from raising your own kids or training a pet, consistency is the key.
   If school bus drivers don’t want to be treated like third-class citizens, then they should not act that way.
   I drove in Hillsborough for eleven years before going to Montgomery, I was always treated with respect and caring from my bus parents.
   If my child was on a bus where the driver acted as Mr. Hague has, there would be NO lengths I would not go to, to insure that not only did he not drive in Hillsborough anymore, but did not drive a school bus anymore.
   I think the parents and town HAVE looked at the big picture and found it wanting.

Lorri McColgan
Amwell Road