Big-hearted bus driver delivers special surprise to Georgia students
By Frank Sulkowski
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BULLOCH COUNTY, Georgia (WJCL) — In Bulloch County, kindness sometimes arrives on a yellow school bus.
For the past 11 years, Edward Rich has safely transported students for Brooklet Elementary School, Southeast Bulloch Middle School, and Southeast Bulloch High School. But for the children who ride with him, Mr. Rich is known for more than getting them to and from school. He is also known for a tradition that reflects his generous heart.
“It’s very rewarding,” said Rich. “I don’t know how much longer I’ll be able to do this, but these are memories I can take with me the rest of my life.”
Each year, Rich rewards students for good behavior on the bus with a pizza dinner, paid for entirely out of his own pocket. He also makes sure to get permission from parents before taking students out. It is a simple gesture, but one that leaves a lasting impression.
“You don’t find very many people that are willing to do extra stuff for their students,” said Jennifer Douberly.
“He goes above and beyond,” said Allen Martin, Director of Transportation for Bulloch County Schools. “That’s what we look for when hiring our drivers.”
What makes the tradition even more meaningful is that Rich does it quietly. He does not seek praise or attention. Instead, he chooses to recognize students in a personal, thoughtful way—showing them that respect, kindness, and good choices matter.
“I wanted to do something for the kids that behave well and this seemed like a fun thing for them to do,” said Rich. “I like seeing them have a good time.”
During the final week of school, Rich continued that tradition by taking two groups of students to Nonna Picci in Statesboro for dinner.
In a world where big headlines often overshadow small acts of goodness, Edward Rich reminds us that everyday heroes are all around us. Sometimes they are behind the wheel, opening the bus door with a smile, and teaching children lessons that go far beyond the ride home.
“This was on my bucket list,” said Rich. “Driving a school bus is something I wanted to do for a long time. I used to have my own business and this allowed me to drive before I went to work and drive in the middle of the day. After dropping off the last student, I would go finish my day off at my office.”
Bulloch County Schools always looking for experienced and motivated bus drivers. For more information visit Jobs in Transportation.
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