Ulster County Announces School Bus Driver of the Year

Congratulations to Ulster County’s 2025 School Bus Driver of the Year!

If you have a school-aged child and send them off to school every day, you already know that there are numerous people who take part in their lives. Teachers, faculty, school administrators, nurses, and coaches all have a part in educating our kids, but there is one profession that oftentimes gets overlooked.

Hudson Valley School Bus Drivers

Yes, your child's school bus driver has one of the most important jobs a person can have each day, and unfortunately, sometimes those drivers don't get the recognition and praise they deserve. Not only are they tasked with driving your child to and from school each day, dealing with some drivers who don't follow the rules, but they are also tasked with dealing with issues between students and more.

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Some days, a bus driver's job can be extremely stressful, and it's nice to see that each county in the Hudson Valley recognizes how important a good bus driver is.

Ulster County Bus Driver of the Year (2025)

Officials in Ulster County have announced the Ulster County 2025 School Bus Driver of the Year. This year, the award goes to Mary Dutka, a longtime driver from the Highland Central School District who has been driving children to and from school for nearly forty years, according to the Ulster County Government Facebook page.

Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger, Traffic Safety Coordinator Brian Slack, Legislator Gina Hansut, and the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office gave Mary her award last week, saying,

"Mary has driven for Highland Central School District for nearly 40 years, earning praise for her spotless safety record, care for students, and dedication to the job. From decorating her bus with school colors to supporting students with special needs, Mary goes above and beyond every day💛."

 

The award is handed out each year by the Ulster County Traffic Safety Board to recognize bus drivers with exceptional service and safety records.

The county also recognized New Paltz High School senior Ethan (above), who became an Eagle Scout after completing his project on bus safety, which will soon be shared with students and families across the New Paltz School District. Congratulations to both winners!