I truly do love my job, but there are days.....

For those who don't know, I teach high school mathematics.  I also have a great interest in world history and culture.  Using that interest, I started a "Multi-cultural" program at the school I work at with the intent of showing the students that there is more to the world than just rural America.  For the most part, it has been pretty good.

Then this week.  Last July, I went to get permission to take a group to San Antonio over spring break and study the history of the area.  You know, missions, Alamo, Mexican/Hispanic influence.  And maybe even a stop for a bit at Sea World.  I got approval, and we have hosted several fundraisers, and talked to some of the community service organizations and managed to raise about half of what we needed.  The students are footing the rest of their share.

A month ago, I sought permission to use the short bus, since all of our other transportation options had fallen through.  The school board granted it, and even mentioned that since the bus only held 14 passengers, then according to the requirements of the state Dept of Ed, I would not need a CDL to drive.  Last Tuesday (understand we are leaving this morning, so less than a week ago) I was informed I would need to go and have my drivers license updated with a passenger endorsement.

Wednesday, I went to the revenue office to get my license, and was informed that "if its yellow with the school name, you have to have a CDL."  So, I bought the study materials, and the state trooper who gives the test made special arrangements to give me the written AND driving part on Thursday afternoon. 

I studied Wednesday night, and most of Thursday.  About 2:20, with the test to be given at 3 pm, the principal came and mentioned that I did not have a drug test on file, and therefore could not drive the bus afterall, even if I passed the test.  (I did by the way, PHEW!!!)  I also went and "donated my bodily fluids" for the drug test, and was informed that it would take over a week for the results to get back.

I'm just a touch frustrated.  I've done everything like I was supposed to, and it still screws the students on a good experience.  This is what happens when republicans are in charge.