The posting
7D Special Education Accessible Van Driver
Ashland Public Schools – Ashland, Massachusetts
Ashland Public Schools is seeking a reliable, responsible, and student-centered driver to provide safe and dependable transportation for students with disabilities using a wheelchair-accessible school van. This position involves established morning and afternoon fix routes, transporting students between their homes and designated schools of Warren Elementary and Ashland Middle School.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to student safety, professionalism, punctuality, and compassion when working with students with diverse physical, developmental, and educational needs. The driver will work collaboratively with families, school personnel, and the Office of Student Services to ensure a safe, supportive, and positive transportation experience for all students.
Candidates who already hold a valid Massachusetts 7D School Pupil Transport Certificate are strongly encouraged to apply. Ashland Public Schools also has a certified 7D trainer who can provide training and support to qualified candidates seeking certification.
Requirements:
- Valid Massachusetts driver's license and satisfactory driving record.
- Current Massachusetts 7D School Pupil Transport Certificate preferred; qualified candidates willing to obtain certification are encouraged to apply.
- Ability to meet all Massachusetts RMV requirements for 7D certification, including applicable background checks, medical qualifications, and required training.
- Experience working with children, particularly students with disabilities, preferred.
- Ability to safely operate a wheelchair-accessible van, including wheelchair lifts, ramps, securement systems, and occupant restraints.
- Strong communication skills, reliability, patience, and professionalism.
- Ability to maintain student confidentiality and follow district transportation and safety procedures.
- Commitment to maintaining consistent attendance for scheduled morning and afternoon routes.
Responsibilities:
- Safely transport students with disabilities on assigned, established morning and afternoon routes.
- Operate a district-provided wheelchair-accessible van in accordance with Massachusetts RMV regulations and district policies.
- Safely assist students with boarding and exiting the vehicle, including the operation of wheelchair lifts and ramps.
- Properly secure wheelchairs, mobility equipment, and student safety restraints before transporting students.
- Conduct required pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections and report maintenance or safety concerns promptly.
- Maintain consistent and timely transportation schedules.
- Communicate professionally and respectfully with students, families, school staff, and district administration.
- Follow individualized transportation plans and student-specific safety protocols as provided by the district.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding student information, disabilities, and educational programming.
- Respond appropriately to transportation-related emergencies and follow district emergency procedures.
- Participate in required training, professional development, and safety updates.
- Maintain accurate transportation records and required documentation.
- Report student transportation concerns to the appropriate school personnel or Office of Student Services.
- Perform other transportation-related duties as assigned by the Director of Student Services or designee.
Position Type: Part-Time, School-Year Position – Fixed Morning and Afternoon Routes
Hourly Rate: $35.50 per hour
Job Contact:
Justin Cameron Director of Student Services Ashland Public Schools 87 West Union Street Ashland, MA 01721
Ashland Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all students and staff.



