“I’m not a stay-at-home kind of guy; I missed the kids, I love working, and they take good care of me.”
“Mr. Ed” boards his bus.
Left side: Liz Johnson, Russell Mann, Kellylynn Watson, Tim Aubin. Right side: Marsha Hamilton, Tina Lombard, Joey Rice, Brandy Brown.
Rob Besaw and “Mr. Ed.”
By John T. Ryan (Please share)
Peru, NY – July 8, 2025 – Many positive things happen at Peru Central School, all centered around respect, care, and relationships. The bond between 85-year-old school bus monitor Russell Edward Mann, the students he watches over, and his fellow transportation department staff members exemplifies these values.
Known to students as “Mr. Ed,” Russell Mann drove a school bus for fourteen years before retinal eye issues forced him to retire at the age of 84. However, just a few months later, he requested to return as a bus monitor. He explains, “I’m not a stay-at-home kind of guy; I missed the kids, I love working, and they take good care of me.”
The “they” Russell refers to are his fellow drivers and monitors. Each morning, between bus runs, they gather in the break room, sharing stories, joking, and enjoying each other’s company. The laughter in the room is contagious. Driver Tina Lombard remarked, “Russell is one of the most compassionate people I’ve ever met.” Rob Besaw added, “I love Russell. He’s so big-hearted.” The sentiment is mutual, as Russell stated, “I’ve always enjoyed the people I work with, but the crew now is the best.”
When Russell retired as a driver in 2024, his colleagues recognized that he had taken a significant pay cut, so they began delivering evening meals to his home one or two nights a week and plowing his driveway during the winter months. That care continues to this day.
Russell says, “I plan to be back next year if I’m healthy enough.” One thing is certain: his fellow transportation staff members and all the students at Peru want him back.
Editor’s note: I almost died laughing listening to the tape of my time in the break room on June 25. These folks truly do respect, care and, yes, love one another.
Posted: July 8th, 2025 under General News.