The Cayman Islands Government has approved a summer stipend programme for eligible school bus drivers and bus wardens employed by private bus companies serving government schools.
The programme is intended to help bridge the loss of income during the annual summer break, when schools close and privately employed bus staff are no longer paid.
Unlike bus drivers and wardens employed directly by the government, those working for private operators contracted to provide school transportation generally do not receive pay during the summer months.
About 170 drivers and wardens will be assessed to determine their eligibility for the programme.
The Ministry of Social Development and Innovation will administer the initiative, which applies to employees of private bus companies contracted by the Ministry of Education and Training to provide daily transport services for students attending government schools.
Isaac Rankine, social development and innovation minister, said in a press release on 3 August that the programme recognises the contribution made by school transport workers while providing financial support during the school recess.
“Every school day, our school bus drivers and bus wardens play an essential role in safely transporting students to and from school,” he said.
“Their dedication provides peace of mind to parents and supports the smooth operation of our education system. “
He explained that the stipend recognises that important contribution while helping eligible recipients bridge the financial gap during the summer recess.
“We remain committed to supporting the people who help keep our communities functioning and our children safe,” the minister added.
Education and training minister Rolston Anglin said the initiative reflects the government’s support for workers who help students travel safely to school.
“Every child deserves access to a good education, and it starts with getting them to school safely,” he said.
“Our bus wardens and drivers make that possible every day. I am pleased we as a government can support them through this initiative.”
Payments will be made in accordance with the approved Bus Driver and Bus Warden Stipend Policy for the 2025-2026 school year.
Eligible recipients must meet the programme’s established criteria before receiving the stipend.
