Government Continues Summer Stipend Programme for School Bus Drivers and Bus Wardens

The Cayman Islands Government has approved a Summer Stipend Programme for eligible school bus drivers and bus wardens employed by private bus companies contracted to provide transportation services for Government schools.

The programme, which will be administered by the Ministry of Social Development & Innovation, is intended to help bridge the income gap experienced during the annual school summer break, when schools are closed and regular employment ceases. Unlike Government-employed school bus drivers and bus wardens, employees of private bus companies are generally not paid during the summer months when schools are not in session. There are 170 school bus drivers and bus wardens who will be assessed for eligibility to benefit from the programme.

Minister for Social Development and Innovation, the Hon. Isaac Rankine, said the initiative reflects Government’s continued commitment to recognising essential workers and investing in the wellbeing of Caymanian families.

“Every school day, our school bus drivers and bus wardens play an essential role in safely transporting students to and from school. Their dedication provides peace of mind to parents and supports the smooth operation of our education system. This stipend recognises that important contribution while helping eligible recipients bridge the financial gap during the summer recess. We remain committed to supporting the people who help keep our communities functioning and our children safe.”

Minister of Education & Training, the Hon. Rolston Anglin shared:

“Every child deserves access to a good education and it starts with getting them to school safely. Our bus wardens and drivers make that possible every day. I am pleased we as a Government can support them through this initiative.”

The initiative supports employees of private bus companies contracted by the Ministry of Education and Training to provide daily transportation services for students attending Government schools.

The Bus Driver and Bus Warden Summer Stipend Programme forms part of the Ministry of Social Development & Innovation’s broader commitment to promoting financial wellbeing, supporting essential workers and strengthening resilient communities. Eligible recipients must meet the programme’s established criteria, with payments administered in accordance with the approved Bus Driver and Bus Warden Stipend Policy for the 2025–2026 school year.