Camden – Amy Galway, a school bus driver for the Camden Central School District, was driving a bus full of pre-K children to McConnellsville Elementary School on Monday, Sept. 30, when a van swerved into her lane.
Galway, with her 12-plus years of experience driving for the district, was able to steer the bus off the road to safety after the collision all while keeping the students calm, and most importantly, safe.
“I’m grateful no one was hurt on my bus … I’m thankful my kids were buckled in their seats and they acted calmly and bravely,” Galway said.
After navigating the bus safely, Galway’s instincts kicked in and she quickly took control of the situation. She was able to direct both pedestrians and other vehicles away from the scene after she noticed power lines were downed.
“She took charge of that, she kept them back. Our bus drivers are leaders,” said Karl Keil, Assistant Superintendent for Business.
What might be more impressive than her handling of the accident was what Galway did the day after.
“The next day she rode on the bus as a passenger sitting with those students and consoled them and encouraged them about getting back on that bus, having a nice ride, and having a good day in school,” Assistant Superintendent Keil said.
Bus drivers are often the first people many students see in the morning and Galway was honored as a prime example of a caring and compassionate bus driver.
“Lastly, I’m thankful to be able to drive a very good bus. No. 174 ‘Big Betty.’ Big Betty never gave Camden drivers or mechanics any trouble. I will be praying she is fixable. If not, what a way to go, giving it all to protect those on board,” Galway said.
