PCAL Names Penny Brown 2024-2025 Statewide Bus Driver of the Year
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cypress, Texas — On Tuesday, May 13th, 2025, Penny Brown of Caldwell PSB was named 2024-2025 Statewide Bus Driver of the Year by PCAL in recognition of her service.
Now in its 21st year, the PCAL Bus Driver of the Year program recognizes drivers based upon multiple driver attributes including Leadership, Attitude, Perseverance, Student and Parent Relationships, and Technical Skill.
Penny Brown, 2024-2025 Statewide Bus Driver of the Year
This year, twelve PCAL Member drivers have been honored as their Parish’s Bus Driver of the Year.
The 2024-2025 PCAL Statewide Bus Driver of the Year award that was presented to Ms. Brown is presented to just one PCAL Parish school bus driver and represents the highest level of achievement.
Lauren Young and Paige Prothro of Risk Services of Louisiana presented Ms. Brown with the Statewide award on behalf of PCAL. The award included a $1,000 check, a Statewide Bus Driver of the Year 20-oz. tumbler, a Statewide Bus Driver of the Year tote, a commendation, and an engraved plaque from the PCAL Bus Driver of the Year program. A plaque commemorating Ms. Brown’s achievement was also awarded to Caldwell PSB.
From left: Superintendent Nicki McCann, Risk Services of Louisiana Representative Paige Prothro, Risk Services of Louisiana Representative Lauren Young, PCAL Statewide Bus Driver of the Year Honoree Penny Brown, Director of Transportation & Maintenance James Wells
Penny Brown has proudly served as a bus operator for Caldwell Parish Schools for over 25 years. Known for her mentorship, dedication, and positive attitude, Penny has earned the respect and admiration of students, colleagues, and her community. She has helped guide new drivers, volunteered for countless field trips and athletic events, and built lasting relationships with families. Her peers describe her as a safe, professional driver with a heart for service and an unwavering love for the job. About being selected as the 2024–2025 PCAL Statewide Bus Driver of the Year, Penny said, “I was totally shocked. I knew I was the district driver, but I had no idea about the Statewide Bus Driver of the Year. I was greatly appreciative—it was a shock.” When asked why she continues to drive after so many years, she added, “I'm just not ready to retire. They say that when you get ready to retire that you’ll know and I haven’t felt that yet.”
“Among the many dedicated professionals who operate school buses within the PCAL program, Penny Brown at Caldwell PSB stands out as a mentor, leader, and good friend with an unwavering commitment to the safety of her student riders,” said Aaron Ramsey, Director, Loss Prevention Services Group. “Her positive attitude and student-parent relationship skills foster an atmosphere of trust and care. PCAL is honored to be represented at the highest level by Ms. Brown, and thanks her for her service to her students, her school, and her community.”
About PCAL
PCAL is a non-profit risk program created specifically for Louisiana school boards. PCAL Members enjoy long-term insurance cost savings while maintaining stability in their budgeting process. PCAL is administered by INSURICA. Loss prevention and claims administration are provided by INSURICA Risk and Claims Management, formerly known as Edwards Risk Management, Inc.
For Questions About the PCAL Bus Driver of the Year Program Contact
Aaron Ramsey
PCAL
busdriveroftheyear@pcalprogram.org
800.575.2657 (toll free)
pcalprogram.org
For PR only
Jackie Edwards | Marketing Director – Educational Practice Group
INSURICA
jackie.edwards@INSURICA.com
INSURICA.com/education