Ellen Berg, Bus 423

Ellen Berg is a dedicated Harford County Public Schools Bus Driver who has been making a difference in the lives of her students for many years. Originally from Fairfax, VA, she moved to Forrest Hill in 1989 and has been a resident of the area ever since.

Ellen started her career with HCPS as an attendant for 8 years before transitioning into bus driver position. She has been driving for 6 years. She takes pride in making bus rides fun and enjoyable for her students. She often uses reward stickers and prizes to add to the excitement. Ellen’s passion for her job shines through in everything she does. She has been recognized by the schools she services many times for her outstanding work with the special needs students on her bus.

In her free time, Ellen enjoys reading and attending family events. Her husband Jeff is a local Pastor, and they have been married for 49 years. Ellen also has four adult children; Tim, Josh, Lauren, and Joy; and eight amazing grandchildren. She is immensely proud of her children’s achievements and accomplishments.

For any new driver staring out in the field, Ellen recommends binge-watching the show Super Nanny, as it offers many valuable tips and tricks for working with children. With her wealth of experience and passion for her work, Ellen Berg is truly a remarkable individual who has made a positive impact on the lives of not only the students she serves, but the entire community.

Jacquelyn Cassady, Bus 302

Jackie Cassady has dedicated 37 years of her life to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the special needs children transported by Harford County Public Schools. Born and raised in Havre De Grace, Jackie began her career in 1986.

Despite the challenges and changes that have come with nearly four decades on the job, Jackie still loves what she does, and has watched countless children grow up over the years. In addition to her role as a bus attendant, Jackie is a proud mother of four children; Danielle, Jaime, Miranda, and Marty; and has been blessed with six granddaughters.

When she is not working or spending time with her family, Jackie enjoys pursuing her passion for gardening and crafting. And even though she works though the summer, she always looks forward to taking a summer trip with her friends.

Asked what advice she would give to a new driver or attendant, Jackie’s answer was simple: “Pack your patience, be kind.” It is a reflection of the care and compassion that has earned her the nickname “Bus mother” among the children and families she serves. Jackie is a beloved fixture in her community, and an inspiration.

Amanda DeVincentz, Bus 560

Amanda DeVincentz has been a bus driver for A. M. Harris Bus, Inc. and Harford County Public Schools for almost 10 years. Born and raised in the North Harford area, Amanda is a familiar face in the community and is well loved by the students she transports to and from school every day.

Amanda’s journey as a bus driver began when her neighbors suggested she apply for the job. She quickly fell in love with the roll and the daily conversations she has with her students. Her driver trainer, Mary Waddell, played a pivotal role in Amanda’s personal life as well. Mary introduced her to her son, James, who is now Amanda’s husband.

Amanda is a devoted mother to her 15-year-old son Dillon and loves spending time with him and her husband. They enjoy playing video games and challenging each other. She also has a creative side and enjoys making crafts and bringing her ideas to life. She believes that creativity is an essential part of her life, and she encourages her students to explore their creative sides as well. Last fall, Amanda decorated her bus for the “Trunk or Treat” event at Red Pump Elementary School, which was a huge success. She was even invited to participate in the Trunk or Treat event at the HCPS Building, where her bus was a hit. She already is planning her next decorating adventure and is looking forward to a memorable experience for her students.

As a seasoned bus driver, Amanda has a few words of advice for new drivers: setting boundaries with students, respecting them, and treating them with kindness and understanding. Her approach has earned her the respect and admiration of her students, parents, and colleagues.

Marianne Gallina, Bus 431

Marianne Gallina is a dedicated Bus Attendant for Harford County Public Schools. She is originally from Middletown, NJ and moved to Maryland 12 years ago. Marianne has been working as a Bus Attendant for three years, after being encouraged to accept the position by Transportation Coordinator, Tina Hockaday. She finds joy in her relationships with the children and loves the fact that every day is different.

Outside of work, Marianne will be celebrating her 28th wedding anniversary this July with her husband Jack. She has a son named John III, who is 26, and a daughter named Bridget, who is 24. She also has a black lab named Maggie May (yes, from the Rod Stewart song). Marianne loves spending time with her family at the beach, and she walks three miles a day to stay healthy.

Marianne’s recent accomplishment is losing 77 pounds. She believes it is a testament to her discipline and commitment to leading a healthy lifestyle. She is always willing to share her knowledge and experience with others and encourages new attendants to smile and be consistent for the children every day.

Marianne’s energetic personality and dedication always shines through in her work.

Norma Arbaugh, Bus 494

Norma Arbaugh has been a certified bus driver for a Harford County Public Schools for 22 years. Norma currently drives bus #494, and transports students to Sheppard Pratt School. In her years as a driver, Norma has earned a reputation for her soft-spoken nature, and willingness to help other drivers and attendants. She always shows empathy to her students, and has established long lasting friendships with their families, even after they no longer ride the bus. She has been married to her husband Chuck, for almost 36 years. She has two children: a daughter, Crystal, who inspired Norma to become a Special Needs driver; and her son, Steven, who is also a certified bus attendant for HCPS. Norma loves her job and believes in the teamwork required to provide safe and dependable service for all students and their families.

Sharon Clements, Bus 457

Sharon Clements has been a certified bus driver for Harford County Public Schools for 18 years. When Sharon needed a career change in 2004, her daughter, Tina, encouraged her to pursue a job driving for HCPS. Sharon currently drives Bus #457, and services students attending Aberdeen High School, Aberdeen Middle School, and High Roads School of Harford County. Sharon demonstrates great dedication to both her students and their families. She works tirelessly and takes on additional work to meet the needs of the students. She is compassionate and calm in every situation. Her commitment to her work is evident with the students and in working with her fellow drivers and attendants. Sharon’s trademark smile, work ethic, and dedication shines through every day.

Kimberly Pierpont, Bus 633

Kimberly Pierpont has been a certified bus driver for Harford County Public Schools since December of 2017. She shared that when she first became a driver, she knew this was a job she could be excited about, and she still is today. Kim currently drives bus #633 for B & T Transportations, and currently services the students of Joppatowne High School Pathways in Technology. In the past, she also drove for Youth’s Benefit Elementary School, and the parents still speak of how impactful her relationship with the students were. Kimberly has supported the HCPS student community in the past few years with Zoom story times and “Zentangle” creative activities. She brings her positive energy to her work every day and encourages new drivers to believe in the training they receive from HCPS. To many of her families, she is more than just a driver, but also a friend. Kimberly, and her husband of 33 years have three amazingly unique daughters, and two adorable rambunctious grandsons.

Crystal Ryan, Bus 285

Crystal Ryan has been a certified bus driver for Harford County Public Schools since 2018. She currently drives Bus #285 for C & J Bus Company, and services students for Edgewood High School, Edgewood Middle School, and William Paca Elementary School. Crystal is respected for her teamwork and dedication to her job. She is constantly striving to learn to communicate better with her students. She works eagerly and professionally with school administrators to help students find success using incentives and the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS) program. She is active in the communities she provides service too. Crystal has provided donations to the Homework Club and participates in Spirit Days. She serves the students and their families with a positive and professional attitude. She shared that she doesn’t even like snow days because she misses her students. Crystal is committed to her students, past, present, and future.