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Zum Celebrates Los Angeles Bus Drivers With Exceptional Service

Today more than 200 bus drivers, city representatives, school board members, district leaders and community members joined Zum and Teamsters Local 572 to honor Los Angeles Unified School District bus drivers who go above and beyond when it comes to looking out for children and getting them to and from school safely.

Jacqueline Kendrick received the inaugural “Suzette Johnson Award,” named after a beloved Zum driver who served Los Angeles United School District students for 20+ years and passed away earlier this year. Kendrick, who has worked as a bus driver for 35+ years, is known for her exceptional service and is a revered figure in the community.

Additionally, “Community Excellence Awards” were given to drivers who perform their job with excellence each day as well as two officers who are relentless in their dedication and service to the community.

The honorees of the “Community Excellence Awards” include:

Jose Aranda, Spring Street Yard

Rosemary Leon, Spring Street Yard

Veronica Herrera, Valley Yard

Karen Olivo, Valley Yard

Darryl Naylor, Valley Yard

Michael Fisher, Gardena Yard

Gerardo Gomez-Reynoso, Gardena Yard

Carolyn Allen, Gardena Yard

Rachelle Tunstall, Gardena Yard

Officer Phillips

Officer Gallow

“The holiday season is a time when we want to celebrate and honor those who play instrumental roles in our communities,” said Ritu Narayan, CEO of Zum. “Our dedicated bus drivers ensure our children have equitable access to the education and support services they deserve. They are the heart of what we do at Zum. We have ensured that our drivers have access to the best equipment, facilities, technology and work environment,and I am proud to honor them for their hard work and commitment.”

“Bus drivers are central to helping our schools and families thrive in Los Angeles,” said Teamsters Local 572 President, Lourdes Garcia. “It was our privilege to join Zum in honoring these workers for their outstanding achievement and the time, care and compassion that they put into their jobs.”

Added City of Carson Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes: “I was so impressed by the drivers I met today, at our very own Carson yard, who make our children smile and keep them safe – and also bring peace of mind to parents and educators. Many have been driving our city’s students for decades, and I was thrilled to help recognize them for their service and for being able to give them a school bus yard that they could call their home base.”

Congratulations to all of the honorees, and thank you for your hard work and dedication to Los Angeles students!