Riding The Cat Bus for 35 years!
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| Terry Hanson |
Today’s guest is someone who’s logged more miles on the backroads of Columbia County than most of us could count. Terry Hanson has been driving a school bus for the Magnolia School District for 35 years — and that’s not counting the year he spent subbing before that. He drives Bus 72, known to the kids as the “Cat Bus,” and in some ways it’s a reflection of his career — reliable, steady, and still rolling strong.
Terry’s day begins out in the Mt. Vernon community, where Lafayette County is practically in his backyard. From there, he heads down those familiar roads, past places like Frog Level — the original county seat of Columbia County — gathering his students one by one on the way into town.
He’s seen a lot of changes over the years: from cranking open doors by hand — which has given his right arm quite a workout — to the new high-tech buses with automatic transmissions, mounted tablets, cameras, and safety systems that make sure no child is ever left behind. And somewhere along the way, he’s driven not just children, but the children of his first riders — which tells you something about how deeply rooted he is in this community. And many of those riders have grown up to become outstanding citizens, and some have become personal friends. It demonstrates the importance of sticking with an endeavor.
Terry was recognized last June as one of a handful of district employees with over 30 years of service, and it’s a safe bet he’ll be honored again when this school year wraps up.
So, buckle up and ride along as we hear the story of Terry Hanson — 35 years behind the wheel, thousands of students safely carried, and a legacy of dedication that’s pure Magnolia through and through.
You know the routine: press the play button below or tune in wherever you get your podcasts to catch today’s episode.
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