PCAL Names Solomon Staten 2023-2024 Statewide Bus Driver of the Year

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cypress, Texas — On Tuesday, April 9th, 2024, Solomon Staten of Richland PSB was named 2023-2024 Statewide Bus Driver of the Year by PCAL in recognition of his service.

Now in its 20th 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.

Solomon Staten, 2023-2024 PCAL Statewide Bus Driver of the Year

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

The 2023-2024 PCAL Statewide Bus Driver of the Year award that was presented to Mr. Staten 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. Solomon 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 Mr. Solomon’s achievement was also awarded to Richland PSB.

From left: Business Manager Bill Martin, Superintendent Sheldon Jones, PCAL Statewide Honoree Solomon Staten, Risk Services of Louisiana Representative Lauren Young, Transportation-Maintenance Manager Stephen Dupont and Transportation-Maintenance Secretary Tina Waller.

Mr. Solomon has served as a school bus driver for Richland PSB for over 45 years, exhibiting perfect attendance and an impeccable driving record. Besides his time behind the wheel, Mr. Solomon has served in other roles at Richland PSB that have had a positive impact on students’ lives. He has also served his local community as a farmer, entrepreneur, and deacon at his church. He has been described as a man of integrity who helps others whenever and wherever he is needed.  About being selected as the PCAL Statewide Bus Driver of the Year, Mr. Solomon said, “It’s a privilege to be recognized as a school bus driver of the year. It’s a great privilege and honor.” “I couldn’t have done this if it hadn’t been for the Lord.”

“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