‘I Don’t Do It for Recognition’: Meet the Smith Bus Service Driver Who Puts Students First

Outstanding Staff Spotlight: The Quiet Hero of Bus 248

Smith Bus Service, LLC

In a world that often celebrates the loudest voices and the flashiest achievements, it’s easy to overlook the quiet heroes who show up every day and simply do what’s right. I was glad to see that the Rutherford County Board of Education Today spotlighted on one such hero: Chai Dackermann, driver of Bus 248.

Going Beyond the Route

Chai recently demonstrated what it truly means to put students first. Through her selfless actions, a student was able to excel in their schoolwork and receive a full day of instruction—an opportunity that would have been lost without her willingness to step beyond the boundaries of her job description.

The details of what Chai did matter less than the heart behind it. She saw a need. She had the ability to help. And without hesitation, she acted.

The Heart of Service

What makes Chai’s story even more remarkable is her response when recognized for her exceptional work. She doesn’t seek applause or accolades. In her own words:

 “I don’t do it for recognition… I just want the students to have what they need for a successful day,” said Chai Dackermann.

This simple statement reveals everything about Chai’s character. Her motivation isn’t external validation—it’s the intrinsic desire to make a difference in the lives of the children she serves each day.

“Thank you, Chai for going the extra mile – literally and figuratively for this student. We, as Smith Bus Service drivers deliver backpacks, laptops and lunches left on our buses to the school on our own personal time and in our personal vehicle to ensure students have their items to excel on a daily basis. However, this was a step above how we normally go above our job duties as mentioned above. You went to their home because the parent didn’t have a running vehicle to get the backpack to their student left at home by accident. You recognized this student would not be able to complete any work during the school day AND you made a difference in the education of your student on this particular day in a large way!” Said, Clarissa Smith, owner of Smith Bus Service.

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Student-Centered Excellence

Chai embodies what true student-centered service looks like. Every morning and afternoon, she doesn’t just transport students from point A to point B. She ensures they arrive ready to learn, supported, and cared for. Her bus isn’t merely a vehicle—it’s an extension of the educational environment where students feel safe, valued, and prepared for success.

This level of commitment doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of someone who has chosen to view their role not as “just a job,” but as a calling to serve the next generation.

Recognition Well Deserved

For these reasons and countless others known only to the families and students she serves, Chai Dackermann has been selected as an Outstanding Staff Award recipient.

Thank you, Chai, for representing Smith Bus Service with excellence, compassion, and quiet leadership. Your dedication creates ripples that extend far beyond Bus 248—impacting families, students, educators, and our entire community in ways you may never fully realize.

You are the kind of person who makes the world better, one student and one day at a time. And while you may not do it for recognition, you absolutely deserve it.

Smith Bus Service, LLC is proud to employ individuals like Chai who understand that their role in a child’s education is vital, valuable, and transformative.