News File Photo Two students walk to their buses at Alpena High School in this April 2021 News file photo.

ALPENA — If you get to school safely, thank a bus driver, Alpena Public Schools urges as the district marks National School Bus Driver Appreciation Day on Wednesday.

The district’s bus drivers — who drive 1,300 students daily and put in 500,000 combined miles per year — have worked to overcome staffing shortages while transporting kids to and from school safely each day, said Lee Fitzpatrick, APS director of communications.

According to the National Academy of Sciences and the U.S. Department of Transportation, school buses offer the safest method for getting children to and from school, Fitzpatrick said.

Those interested in working as bus dispatchers or drivers may call 989-358-5030 for information or visit www.alpenaschools.com to apply.