Positive Attitude, Unstoppable Strength

Rhonda McCuen Recognized as SC Support Employee of the Year

Rhonda McCuen, Safety Training Specialist for Greenville County Schools, was recently presented the 2019 Support Employee of the Year award from the South Carolina Association of Pupil Transportation. She received the award for her outstanding leadership of the Safety and Training Division of the GCS Transportation Department. 

Mrs. McCuen, who has served the district for 37 years, helps maintain a rigorous driver training program for Greenville County Schools’ more than 350 drivers, 120 bus aides, and 200 coaches who drive for their school events. McCuen also oversees six safety officers who train the Commercial Driver’s License drivers, assuring that all records reflect current requirements at the state and federal levels.

In addition to training hundreds of drivers, McCuen and her team have seen a 30-percent reduction in vehicular accidents over the past two years due to the division’s out-of-the-box thinking and proactive training.

Mrs. McCuen performs her job in an exemplary manner, despite the fact that she was diagnosed with metastasized breast cancer in 2004. She went through surgery and treatment, resulting in the cancer’s remission, while maintaining her determined spunk and positive outlook on life. However, the cancer came back a few years ago.

“Rhonda is a fighter,” said Director of Transportation Adam James. “Seeing her at work on the days she is able to be there is an inspiration to all of us who know her well.  I have never once heard her complain about the cancer.  She handles it with strength and grace.  When I see what she is going through, it really puts my own problems into the correct perspective.”

“She sports cool knitted caps, fixes her makeup, and keeps her feistiness on point,” said Teena Mitchell, Coordinator of Special Needs Transportation. “She has a smile on her face and a kind word for everyone.  Rhonda literally lights up the room when she walks in.”