The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines work ethic as a belief in work as a moral good: a set of values centered on the importance of doing work and reflected especially in a desire or determination to work hard. Marcus McIlveen is the epitome of the definition and should have his photo included next to it.
McIlveen is a long-time bus operator who has captured the hearts and admiration of the Benton community. He is the only driver who runs three routes each morning and afternoon, picking up and dropping off for Kingston Elementary, Benton Intermediate, Benton Middle and Benton High. All 184 of his riders see this gentle giant of a man as a comforting, friendly figure who treats them with respect and kindness. Kingston mom Morgan Burton and her children are among McIlveen’s many fans.
“My daughter begged to ride the bus, but I was just terrified because she was so young,” Burton said. “I met Mr. Marcus and he completely changed my mind. He always greets the kids every morning. (He) Makes sure if the weather is bad to drop kids off as close to their home as possible and always communicates any time the bus will be delayed through our neighborhood Facebook page. He is truly such a blessing to our school.”
Kingston Assistant Principal Amber Beach calls him the “Principal of the Buses,” because McIlveen exemplifies what it means to go the extra mile.
“He is invested in his students and can tell you about their families, hobbies, pets and so much more,” Beach shared. “He is the first to volunteer for a field trip, after-school activity or to drive our faculty Christmas caroling. He often trains new drivers and takes great pride in training those that will be entrusted to transport our most precious gift, our children.”
The road to being hired by Bossier Schools’ Transportation department was not an easy one, though. When the honorably discharged Air Force veteran first applied, he did not own a vehicle. He did not let that stop him, though. In fact, his photo should be next to another word in the dictionary; determined.
“So he walked to the bus barn, arriving at 5:30 a.m. each day, just in case a substitute driver was needed,” Transportation Director Lt. Col. Dave Hadden explained. “He also hung around the bus barn to accept potential mid-day runs or field trips. On one particular day, he walked from Shed Road (in Bossier City) to Plain Dealing to run a route, starting at 10 p.m. the night before and arriving in Plain Dealing on-time the next morning.”
Needless to say, McIlveen was offered a full-time position as soon as one became available.
“In the 16 years since, he has never shorted us on his work ethic, places safety as his number one priority for our nation’s most precious cargo, and strives hard to be a role model for his students,” Hadden added.
Asked why he was so driven to join the Transportation team, McIlveen simply answered, “At the time, I needed a job, and I wanted to do the best job that I could.”
McIlveen finds great pride in training new drivers, striving to ensure they are properly trained. He also enjoys going on field trips to see new places and ensuring the students remain safe. He has also set a goal of where he hopes his path will eventually lead.
“Eventually, I would like to become the Director of Transportation,” McIlveen revealed. “I am working towards that by finishing my degree in human resources.”
There’s his work ethic and determination on display again.
One recent morning during drop-off at Kingston, a surprise was waiting for “Mr. Marcus,” as his riders call him. A host of cheerleaders lined the walkway, a poster fluttered in the breeze congratulating him and Bossier Schools Superintendent Jason Rowland – another fan of McIlveen’s – was waiting for his arrival, along with fellow bus operators and others. Amid much fanfare, McIlveen learned he was chosen as Bossier Schools’ latest winner of the Gold Star employee award. After all, a heart of gold deserves a real gold star.
Benton Intermediate Principal Jennifer Burris summed it up best.
“Marcus demonstrates that no matter the role, we can all make a lasting impact on students’ lives. His dedication and attitude are truly deserving of recognition.”
Editor’s note: Know someone who works for Bossier Schools that is deserving of recognition for going above and beyond? Nominate them for the Gold Star award, proudly sponsored for the 12th year by Bossier Federal Credit Union. Visit https://bit.ly/3MOZSRY to tell what sets them apart and be watching for our next Gold Star surprise.