After 28 years of dedicated service to Big Rapids Public Schools, Transportation Director Mark Weller is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to student safety.
Mark's journey with BRPS began in 1998 as a school bus driver. Throughout his career, he also served as a Lead Driver and Interim Transportation Director before ultimately becoming the district's Transportation Director. During his years behind the wheel, he transported students on regular bus routes as well as serving as a special education and homeless van driver, ensuring every child had safe and reliable transportation to and from school.
While his official titles changed over the years, Mark was never one to shy away from rolling up his sleeves. Whether he was helping with bus maintenance, tackling mechanical repairs, handling office and secretarial duties, or stepping in as a substitute custodian for the Facilities Department during the summer, he was always willing to do whatever was needed to support the district. His hands-on approach and willingness to serve wherever he was needed earned the respect of colleagues and helped keep Big Rapids Public Schools running smoothly for nearly three decades.
When asked to reflect on one special memory from his time at BRPS, Mark didn't mention a new bus or a major project. Instead, he recalled the opportunity to take a mother experiencing homelessness and her children, all BRPS students, to Jones Ice Cream in Baldwin for a special treat at the end of the school year.
"It was a simple gesture," he shared, "but one that reminded me that sometimes the little things can make the biggest difference."
Throughout his career, Mark's greatest priority has always been the safety of the students entrusted to his care. While he is proud of many accomplishments—including modernizing the district's bus fleet with International buses, equipping every bus with security cameras, improving the bus garage with enhanced lighting and safety features, and advocating for competitive wages for transportation staff—he says his proudest achievement is simple:
"Keeping BRPS kids safe over the last 28 years."
Those words perfectly capture the heart of Mark's career. Every decision he made, every improvement he championed, and every mile traveled was centered on ensuring students arrived safely at school and home each day.
When asked to summarize his time at BRPS in three words, Mark chose:
Meaningful. Challenging. Rewarding.
His advice for those just beginning their careers in transportation is equally straightforward:
"Remember the reason you're here—it's for the safety of the kids you transport."
As retirement begins, Mark says he'll miss the caring, supportive, and close-knit family atmosphere of the Transportation Department the most. The friendships built over nearly three decades have meant as much to him as the work itself. While his official retirement is just around the corner, Mark's last day with Big Rapids Public Schools will be in early August, giving him one final opportunity to support the team before beginning his next chapter.
Looking ahead, Mark is excited for his next adventure: heading north to Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula to enjoy retirement and everything it has to offer.
Mark's leadership has helped shape the Transportation Department into what it is today, and his impact will continue to be felt for years to come. On behalf of the Board of Education, staff, students, families, and the entire Big Rapids community, we extend our sincere gratitude for his 28 years of dedicated service.
Congratulations, Mark, on a well-earned retirement! Thank you for helping generations of Cardinals arrive safely, every single day. Wishing you many miles of adventure and relaxation in the U.P.!