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For nearly 32 years, Jannell Haskins has driven the same Fairfax County Public Schools bus route, safely transporting students from South Lakes High School, Hughes Middle School, Dogwood Elementary School and Terraset Elementary School.

Her decades of service were celebrated during National School Bus Safety Week, observed annually during the third full week of October to promote safety among students, families, educators, drivers and everyone sharing the road with school buses.

Haskins begins each workday at 5:55 a.m. at the Stonecroft Transportation Center. Before starting her route, she spends at least 10 minutes inspecting the bus to confirm its systems and components are clean, unobstructed and working correctly.

Safety remains central throughout the day. Haskins makes sure students sit properly and keep their hands to themselves. She also checks the emergency equipment and exits and organizes student safety patrols to help maintain order aboard the bus.

“We’re all out here for the same common goal: to get the kids to school so they can get an education, and we can have a better community as they grow up,” Haskins said. “It might seem like a small thing that we do, taking them back and forth to school, but I think we are some of the foundations of the school system.”

Students also recognize the care she brings to the job. One Hughes Middle School student described Haskins as kind, sweet and caring, noting that she tells students to “have a great day” every time they leave the bus.

Over three decades, Haskins has developed lasting connections with students, families and fellow transportation employees. She said the pride FCPS drivers take in their work—and the way they support one another—makes their community special.

Jeremy Doxer, senior manager for Area 4 Transportation and Haskins’ supervisor, praised her commitment to colleagues and families. He said that during his 18 years with FCPS, he has encountered few people who match her dedication and compassion.

Haskins’ long career reflects the responsibility highlighted during National School Bus Safety Week—and the daily work required to give thousands of students a safe, positive trip to and from school.