School Bus Driver Appreciation Day

Minnesota the 10th Annual School Bus Driver Appreciation Day

Minnesota will proudly mark the 10th Annual School Bus Driver Appreciation Day on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, celebrating the thousands of professional school bus drivers who safely transport nearly 700,000 students across the state each school day.

School bus drivers are more than drivers—they are trusted professionals who ensure safe access to education, support students with diverse needs, and serve as vital members of their school communities. Their dedication, patience, and commitment make a lasting impact on the lives of Minnesota students and families.

In recognition of their essential role, Governor Tim Walz will once again issue a statewide School Bus Driver Appreciation Day Proclamation, honoring drivers for their contributions to student safety, educational access, and community well-being.

To further honor these professionals, the I-35W Bridge in Minneapolis will be illuminated in yellow on the evening of February 18—a visible symbol of gratitude for school bus drivers across Minnesota.

Media Participation Opportunities

MSBOA welcomes media partners to help highlight this statewide celebration through:

  • Early-morning live shots at bus garages as drivers begin their routes
  • Pre-arranged ride-along opportunities with school bus drivers
  • Interviews focused on driver recruitment and workforce needs
  • Feature stories on long-serving drivers, parent appreciation efforts, or special-needs transportation
  • Coverage of driver appreciation breakfasts, receptions, and recognition events hosted by school districts

For more information or to coordinate coverage, please contact MSBOA Headquarters at 218-351-8985 or email info@msboa.com.

Together, we proudly say thank you to Minnesota’s school bus drivers for the care, professionalism, and dedication they show every day.

The Material List

DRAFT City Proclamation

Minnesota School Bus Driver Appreciation Day Proclamation Request

On behalf of Minnesota’s hardworking and highly trained school bus drivers, we respectfully request that Wednesday, February 18, 2026, be proclaimed “School Bus Driver Appreciation Day” in your city.

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DRAFT Commentaries

COMMENTARY 1 – The People Who Start and End Every School Day Safely

Every morning before the sun rises, long before alarm clocks ring in most Minnesota households, thousands of school bus drivers across our state are already at work.

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DRAFT Governor's Proclamation

As of November 17, 2025

WHEREAS: Minnesota’s school bus drivers work through every season—from dark winter mornings to bright spring afternoons—safely transporting nearly 700,000 students to and...

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DRAFT Letters to the Editor

A Day to Thank School Bus Drivers

As a leader in Minnesota’s school transportation industry, I want to remind our community that School Bus Driver Appreciation Day is coming up on February 18.

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DRAFT Media Advisory

Minnesota to Celebrate 10th Annual School Bus Driver Appreciation Day – Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026

Minnesota will mark the 10th annual School Bus Driver Appreciation Day on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, a statewide celebration honoring the thousands of professional school bus drivers who safely...

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DRAFT Press Release Feb. 17

Minnesota to Celebrate 10th Annual School Bus Driver Appreciation Day on Feb. 18

(SAINT PAUL, Minn) – Minnesotans across the state will celebrate the 10th Annual School Bus Driver Appreciation Day on Wednesday, Feb. 18, recognizing the dedicated professionals who safely...

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DRAFT School District Proclamation

Minnesota School Bus Driver Appreciation Day Proclamation Request

WHEREAS: Minnesota’s school bus drivers work through every season—from dark winter mornings to bright spring afternoons—safely transporting nearly 700,000 students to and...

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Save the Date to school district staff

A Day to Thank School Bus Drivers

As a leader in Minnesota’s school transportation industry, I want to remind our community that School Bus Driver Appreciation Day is coming up on February 18.

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