An Interview with Chris Stetson

Chris Stetson - A people person with a goal to uplift everyone around him

School bus driver, Chris Stetson, is deeply connected to many of the people and institutions associated with North Western Vermont. He went to Highgate elementary school and then Missisquoi Valley Union (MVU) and Bellows Free Academy (BFA) for high school. Chris worked as a janitor at Highgate elementary, at Missisquoi Valley Union High School and at regional hockey rinks during and after graduating from high school. Chris also worked briefly at McDonalds before spending ten years as a sanitation worker with Casella Waste Management. Most recently, and just prior to becoming a bus driver, he worked as an engineer in a factory measuring rings and valves. Those work experiences informed Chris that he was happiest when working with people.  Chris sees the good in everyone.

If you liked what Chris had to say above, then consider scrolling to the bottom of this page to listen to his views on to following topics:
  • Student behavior on his bus
  • Keeping a positive atmosphere around co-workers
  • Being a safe bus driver

Scroll down the page to find the audio links to each topic

Student behavior on his bus

A constant challenge for St. Albans City School’s bus drivers is the behavior of many of the students on their buses, often described rude and out of control. I was very curious to know how Chris addressed students who horse around on his bus. Check out his amazing answer.

​Keeping a positive atmosphere around co-workers

I asked Chris about the respect he receives from the people working within the school. His answer tells a lot about how he considers people in general. I then asked him how he dealt with the jaded and toxic attitudes a few other bus drivers working for the school have exhibited. That answer too gives insight into Chris’ ability to stay positive and friendly with everyone he works and interacts with.

​Being a safe bus driver

City school buses hold up to 60 students. That volume of people is a tremendous responsibility for a bus driver, so I felt curious enough to directly ask Chris how he felt about his driving skills and his ability to deliver students safely to their destination. It was encouraging hearing what he had to say.