First Student drivers, mechanics and dispatchers in Berlin, Vermont, have voted overwhelmingly, 41-6, in favor of representation by Teamsters Local 597 in South Barre. The workers came together seeking respect, fairness and improved safety. There are 63 workers in the bargaining unit.

“I’m really happy we’re Teamsters. I’m going to be respected as a driver now,” said Marina Gorton, a First Student worker. “I walked right into the Teamsters office several months ago because we needed job security, better communication and no more favoritism. Even overnight, since our vote, the atmosphere has gotten better in the office.”

“This is another example of how Joint Councils and local unions, working together, provide an organizing opportunity for workers that definitely need help in the workplace,” said Ronald Rabideau, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 597.

Since January 19, 364 school bus workers at eight First Student locations throughout New England, including Berlin, have joined the Teamsters.

“We’re honored that another group of First Student workers in New England chose to become Teamsters and we look forward to negotiating a contract to improve their working conditions,” said David W. Laughton, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Joint Council 10.

This victory is the latest in an effort to organize private school bus and transit workers across the country. Drive Up Standards is a national campaign to improve safety, service and work standards in the private school bus and transit industry. Since the campaign began in 2006, more than 25,500 drivers, monitors, aides, mechanics and attendants have become Teamsters.

Founded in 1903, the Teamsters Union represents more than 1.4 million hardworking men and women in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.

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