Bus 100 rumbles to a stop at West High every afternoon, and students climb aboard, greeted by bus driver Nikki Wright. Although the bus may look ordinary from the outside, the inside of the bright yellow bus tells a different story. Covering the ceiling are a multitude of spring decorations, ranging from festive ribbons bordering the windows to gnomes hanging from the ceiling with string. The decorations have become a signature part of Wright’s bus, brightening up what would be a dull interior. Music hums in the background, overlapping with the noise of students chattering. 

“Around every major holiday, I hang up decorations that sort of match that theme,” Wright said. “Personally, it’s a fun thing I get to do, and I know it cheers some kids up. I also play music, from my own playlist. Otherwise, I just try my best to make the bus a welcoming and relaxing environment.”

Wright started the tradition during her first year of driving, after she completed the extensive training required for new bus drivers.

“It took about three to four months to learn everything. I started in August, and by November, I was able to start a route,” Wright said. “There are a ton of tests you have to take.” 

Wright’s commitment requires early mornings; every day, she wakes at 4:40 a.m. to pick up bus 100 at the Parkway Central bus garage. She has a total of three routes, going to West High, South Middle and Claymont Elementary. Additionally, she sometimes picks up field trip routes. 

“For some kids, I’m the first person they see in the morning. It’s important to me to make everyone feel welcome, seen and appreciated. Some days can be really hard, and a couple of kind words can go a long way,” Wright said.

Wright’s daily greetings, music and decorations make a noticeable difference on the ride. For many riders, those small routines have become something they look forward to each day.

“I’ve had [Wright] as a bus driver since middle school. She always says hello and tells us to have a nice day, which I think is really sweet,” freshman Sarah Helwani said.

Her gestures may be small, but the impact she has on her students keeps her motivated.

“I remember during the first year of driving, I used to drive a route for South High. There was this kid who I always said ‘good morning’ to, but he never responded. One day, I took a day off to attend my father’s funeral. When I came back [to driving the bus], he asked where I went. That’s when I knew that I’m making the impact that I want to make,” Wright said.