Harris and Dixon compete again

It’s déjà vu for school bus drivers Sherry Harris and Michael Dixon as they get ready to compete head-to-head June 3-4 at the annual Georgia School Bus Road-e-o in Warner Robins.

Both are experienced state competitors; they represented Fayette at the 2013 competition where Harris won the championship and Dixon finished tenth.

Harris and Dixon took first and second place, respectively, at this year’s Fayette County School Bus Road-e-o, sponsored each spring by the school system’s transportation department.

The competition consists of a series of skills tests and a written exam, all based on abilities and knowledge that a driver would probably have from day-to-day experience. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy.

Imagine parallel parking a 36-foot long bus just a mere fraction of an inch away from the curb, but not touching it. Or, what about maneuvering the bus through diminishing clearances while maintaining a straight line, and driving in a smooth and continuous manner?

Doing well in the competition is about more than prestige; it tests the skills drivers use every day to safely transport students to and from school.

Also placing in the Fayette County Road-e-o competition was Jimmie Poole (third) and Christopher Hausser (fourth).

Drivers volunteer to take part in the competition, using their own personal time to practice and participate in the event.