PCAL Names Gawan Burgess 2022-2023 Statewide Bus Driver of the Year

Jena, Louisiana — On Tuesday, March 7th, 2023, Gawan Burgess of LaSalle PSB was named 2022-2023 Statewide Bus Driver of the Year by PCAL in recognition of his service.  

Now in its 19th 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. 

Gawan Burgess, PCAL 2022-2023 Statewide Bus Driver of the Year 

This year, nine PCAL Member drivers have been honored as their Parish’s 2022-2023 Bus Driver of the Year.  

The 2022-2023 PCAL Statewide Bus Driver of the Year award that was presented to Mr. Burgess is presented to just one PCAL Parish school bus driver and represents the highest level of achievement.  

Lauren Young of Risk Services of Louisiana presented Mr. Burgess with the Statewide award on behalf of PCAL. The award included a $1,000 check, a Bus Driver of the Year 20-oz. tumbler, a Bus Driver of the Year tote, a commendation, and an engraved plaque from the PCAL Bus Driver of the Year program. A plaque commemorating Mr. Burgess’ achievement was also awarded to LaSalle PSB. 

From left: Superintendent Janet Tullos, Transportation Supervisor Orrin Joiner, PCAL Statewide Honoree Gawan Burgess and Risk Services of Louisiana Representative Lauren Young.

Mr. Burgess has worked for LaSalle PSB for 39 years and has served as a school bus driver for the last 6 years. Mr. Burgess described the award as “an awesome surprise and humbling honor.” Mr. Burgess has been praised by those he serves for the respect he has for them and his consistent positive attitude. He has been described as “a great role model” and someone who keeps safety as his utmost concern. 

 “School bus drivers play such a very important role in the education of our students. Learning so many of their stories over the years, we continue to be moved by their selfless care for the children, families, and communities they serve. The school bus continues to be the safest mode of transportation to and from school, due in large part to the skill and dedication of those who operate the buses,” said Aaron Ramsey, Director, Loss Prevention Services Group. “At PCAL, it’s our privilege to support Members in honoring the valuable contributions made by our school bus drivers.” 

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 Edwards Risk Management, Inc.

For Questions About the PCAL Bus Driver of the Year Program Contact

Ken Mason
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