By Emma Byard, Staff Writer
Activity bus drivers have one expectation: to bring students to and from their activity safely. Bus driver Tim Shearin rises above and beyond this basic duty, however, for the cross country and track and field teams. Shearin is better known as the runners’ biggest fan.
“Getting to know (the athletes) and their families has been a terrific experience for me personally,” Shearin said. “I always look forward to the start of a new school year because I know that I will get to see ‘my kids’ soon.”
Shearin has been driving activity buses for five years. His first experience driving was with the cross country and track teams and he continues to drive for them whenever the opportunity arises.
“I have found that the athletes on the cross country and track and field teams are among the most dedicated athletes and students in the Dare County school system,” Shearin said.
Not only does he drive these athletes, but he also cheers them on in their events and creates a personal connection with them. Sophomore Madison Pugh has known Shearin for the past two years that she has been running for First Flight, and can attest to his affable personality.
“Mr. Tim is definitely just a welcoming person and he is always super happy to see us, which makes us super happy to see him,” Pugh said.
Added junior Maddy Wagner: “He is really supportive of our running and he is always cheering for us. He always asks about how we do (after a race).”
Shearin has a reputation for caring and kindness after meets, as well.
“Last year, we were going to Chick-fil-A and we had to guess a number he had in his head to see who got the closest to the number,” Pugh said. “I picked it and he paid for my dinner.”
Senior Aidan May’s favorite memory with Shearin involved an even bigger act of generosity.
“There was one time after a meet where everyone did really well and we went to go eat and he paid for everyone’s meal. I have made a good memory every time that Mr. Tim was the bus driver,” May said.
Going above and beyond the expectations of an activity bus driver has allowed Shearin to create these relationships and become a well-known member of the cross country and track teams.
“He is an amazing role model, and knowing that he is always supporting our team is great,” Wagner said.
Senior Emma Byard can be reached at [email protected].
