Gwinnett County Bus Monitor Job Offers Chance to Give Back, IPSE Graduate Says

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Josh Farr’s dream came true when he was hired by GCPS as a school bus monitor.

“Josh has always loved riding the school bus,” Suzanne Collins said with a smile when asked why her son, Josh Farr, pursued a career as a bus monitor. “I remember when he started the pre-Kindergarten program at age three, the school bus would pick him up and it was the highlight of his day.  Over time, because of the radio communications between the drivers, Josh was able to memorize names of the bus drivers, the bus number for each driver, and the routes for which drivers were responsible.”

Josh, who is now 26 years old, graduated at age 21 from North Gwinnett High School in Suwanee. He wanted to continue his education after completing high school with a special needs diploma, so he enrolled in the Academy for Inclusive Learning and Social Growth program at Kennesaw State University (KSU). The program, which is considered Inclusive Post-Secondary Education (or IPSE), allows students with different intellectual or developmental abilities to earn a certificate rather than a degree.   

The IPSE program at KSU includes courses in social involvement and career exploration. Graduates receive a certificate in Social Growth and Development.  “The IPSE experience at KSU was beneficial,” Josh shared.  “Living in the dorm gave me a chance to learn some life skills. I learned how to do my own laundry, and I enjoyed eating meals with my friends at the on-campus dining hall.”

Josh’s IPSE experience instills confidence, accelerates his ambition

Last fall, Josh applied for a position with Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) as a bus monitor. Wendy Pearce, a counselor in GVRA’s Gainesville office, worked with Gina Jones from Progressive Abilities Support Services to help Josh secure the bus monitor opening.   

As a school bus monitor, Josh ensures students enter and exit the bus safely. He must be certain the students are secure while riding the bus. Josh operates the lift that allows students with wheelchairs to enter and exit the bus. Additionally, he assists the driver by maintaining order while the bus is in operation. Currently, Josh works six hours per day for five days each week. He earns more than double the federal minimum wage, so his position is considered competitive integrated employment.  

“Getting to know the students is a big part of becoming a bus monitor. Josh’s ability to remember the students’ names is remarkable,” Pearce said. “Not all special needs students are mainstreamed. Therefore, bus monitors and bus drivers are important to special needs students, because they realize drivers and monitors are not intimidated by individuals with disabilities.”

A GCPS graduate, Josh says his school system job is meaningful

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One of Josh’s duties is to be sure all students are seated securely on the bus.    

When asked to comment on his school system employment, Josh replied that he loves his job. “As a graduate of Gwinnett County Public Schools, I think helping students with special needs is a chance to give back,” he stated. “I’m disclosing that I have autism/Asperger’s Syndrome because I want to let everyone know the great things people on the autism spectrum can do as members of the workforce.”

Josh acknowledged the encouragement he received from his counselors, Pearce and Jones. “Based on my experience, I would recommend GVRA’s services to folks who might benefit. I want the world to know autistic people can be wonderful employees who truly care about their jobs.”   

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