The Rapides Parish School Board is encouraging community members to sign up for its upcoming free bus driver certification class aimed at strengthening student transportation services.

The class will be held April 6–10, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the RAPPS campus, located at 2121 Mason Street in Alexandria. The training is provided at no cost to all who register.

School officials say both full-time and substitute drivers are needed to support daily operations and ensure students arrive safely and on time.

Full-time contracted operators work four hours per day at a rate of $29.35 per hour, with an annual salary of $21,132. Benefits for full-time positions include state retirement and state group health insurance.

Those interested in registering can call 318-449-3108 or email cinda.thomas@rpsb.us for more information.