Trucker Buddy News

Trucker Buddy news

Driver serves as a positive role model

Teacher Cindy Slovacek has participated in the Trucker Buddy program for 13 years, and she says while all of her Trucker Buddies have been beneficial to her students, John Rose stands out because of his extraordinary endeavors.

“My classes have corresponded with many drivers over the years, but John Rose is an exceptional member of your program,” Slovacek writes in her nomination letter. “John deserves to be recognized as Trucker Buddy of the Month because of his caring nature, dedication to the students and support of education.”

The students agree. “My class has had Trucker Buddies before, but none of them have been as much fun as LJ,” writes Callie. (“LJ” is Rose’s nickname.)

“John Rose has been a positive influence on our class,” writes fellow seventh grader Zach. “He has gone above and beyond to challenge us. He definitely deserves the honor of Trucker Buddy of the Month.”

Student Catrina says, “He never forgets us! LJ always makes the effort and takes the time to make us feel important.”

Rose, who writes to each student individually, believes in developing students’ minds and research skills. He sends trivia questions and challenges students to discover answers. “The class has a great time finding the answers, and all of the students are motivated to work on their research skills,” Slovacek says.

Rose visits the class as often as possible. “These personal visits are filled with fun and life lessons—lessons about the importance of education and responsible behavior, the value of family and the rewards of kindness to others,” Slovacek says. “He is a positive influence on the students and truly cares about their well-being and future. The students have benefited from this program and from knowing John. No one deserves to be named Trucker Buddy of the Month more than John Rose.”

An owner-operator leased to O&S Trucking in Springfield, MO, Rose will receive a personalized jacket, along with a check for $300 to spend on the class and $200 in Trucker Buddy merchandise, compliments of ACS MultiMedia Advertising. Rose is among some 3,500 other professional drivers who share their time with elementary classes throughout the world. The only criteria to be a Trucker Buddy is to be a truck driver and willing to send a postcard each week to a class in grades two through eight. Drivers and teachers can find out more about the program by visiting www.truckerbuddy.org or calling 1-800-MY BUDDY.

Photo caption:

Owner-operator John Rose, the January 2007 Trucker Buddy Driver of the Month.