The drivers and attendants at the Southgate/Trenton Dean transportation office don’t just come to work — they actively support each other, the community and their students.
Each day, the department’s 40 drivers and 18 attendants greet their riders with smiling faces, welcoming them onto their buses and helping them get to school safely.
The 46-bus fleet includes six electric vehicles dedicated to transporting students from Trenton Public Schools to and from school. The office also serves students from Southgate Community Schools and supports transportation for special needs students in other districts throughout the county.
Led by Transportation Supervisor Toni Thomas, the team is always building trust and community in the office. Thomas described the selflessness of all her employees, always helping each other, however they can. They even had their first-ever “Dean’s Beans Chili Cook-Off,” which Thomas said turned out to be a great success.
“We’re more than just a team — we’re a small family,” Thomas said. “Our drivers and attendants support each other professionally and personally … the spirit of unity is what makes our team special.”
The drivers’ and attendants’ support for their students extends far beyond driving them to school. Thomas said that drivers stop by classrooms to read books and can often be found cheering kids on at various after-school activities.
The office often comes together to uplift their community as well, putting in hours outside of the regular routes. Each year, they partner with the school districts to host their “Stuff-A-Bus” canned food drive to collect goods for the local food pantry. Drivers also work together to help families during the holiday season and organize other activities to give back throughout the year.
“Our team goes above and beyond every day,” said Thomas.
Her perspective on what it looks like to live out the Dean mission? “Treat your employees the way you want to be treated. Everyone is fighting a battle you may not see. A little kindness goes a long way.”
