School Bus Drivers' Day
Tuesday, April 28, 2026
A standard color and a safer ride. In April 1939,Frank Cyr, a professor at Teachers College, Columbia University, organized a seven-day conference funded by a $5,000 Rockefeller Foundation grant. Representatives from all 48 states, bus manufacturers, and paint companies attended. They approved 44 national standards covering body length, ceiling height, aisle width, and mechanical specifications. The most enduring outcome was the selection of a single bus color from approximately 50 shades: "National School Bus Chrome," now called National School Bus Glossy Yellow. The color was chosen for maximum visibility in early morning light and bad weather
History
A standard color and a safer ride. In April 1939,Frank Cyr, a professor at Teachers College, Columbia University, organized a seven-day conference funded by a $5,000 Rockefeller Foundation grant. Representatives from all 48 states, bus manufacturers, and paint companies attended. They approved 44 national standards covering body length, ceiling height, aisle width, and mechanical specifications. The most enduring outcome was the selection of a single bus color from approximately 50 shades: "National School Bus Chrome," now called National School Bus Glossy Yellow. The color was chosen for maximum visibility in early morning light and bad weather
How It's Celebrated
School Bus Drivers' Day is observed by recognizing the importance of the day, learning about its background and significance, and sharing awareness with others through conversation and social media. Many people take time to reflect on the meaning of the observance and participate in relevant activities or community events.