After more than three decades of extraordinary service in educational transportation, Alice Johnson is beginning a well-earned retirement—closing a remarkable chapter defined by leadership, innovation, mentorship, and a commitment to students.
Alice’s journey began in 1992 as a school bus driver in Brighton. Her natural ability to connect with people, her skill behind the wheel, and her calm, confident presence quickly set her apart. She stepped into the role of trainer for new drivers, launching what would become a distinguished career dedicated to safety, service, and operational excellence. She later served as assistant supervisor for Dexter Community Schools and as transportation supervisor at Whitmore Lake Schools before joining the Livingston Educational Service Agency in March 2008.
As Director of Transportation at LESA, Alice’s leadership has left a lasting imprint on the agency and the region. She was instrumental in shaping the Regional Transportation Collaborative (RTC), launched in 2010—a transformative initiative supported by her work in parent outreach, district communications, organizational design, budgeting, and implementation planning. Her efforts helped create a collaborative model that continues to benefit students and districts across Livingston County.
A lifelong believer in continuing education and up-to-date safety practices, Alice championed numerous advancements that have strengthened student transportation. Under her direction, the department adopted enhanced driver training and licensing processes, real-time fleet data systems, routing software, on-board digital video systems, and stop-arm cameras. She also played a central role in developing the RTC Bus Driver and Bus Assistant Employee Handbook and oversaw multiple fuel bids and bus purchases—always with students’ best interests at the forefront.
Alice’s leadership extended well beyond technical expertise. Known for her mantra, “Firm, Fair, and Friendly,” she approached every challenge with clarity, compassion, and honesty. Colleagues often recall her uncanny abilities to tell you exactly what you needed to hear—whether you had made a mistake or simply needed encouragement—yet somehow leave you feeling stronger, supported, and ready to move forward. With a story or anecdote for almost any situation, she reassured her team in her own signature way: “Been there, done that…you’ll be just fine.”
Her thoughtful nature showed up in the smallest details, too. Alice was famous for remembering everyone’s candy preferences. She encouraged staff camaraderie, particularly through the Howell Fantasy of Lights Parade, where her enthusiasm helped inspire years of award-winning entries.
Perhaps, most importantly, Alice was deeply student-centered. Every decision she made—every new procedure, technology upgrade, or operational shift—was guided by one question: What is best for our students? That focus shaped her department’s culture and built a legacy that will continue long after her retirement.
As Alice steps into her next chapter, many of her colleagues are reminded of the picture that hung in her office chair—two Adirondack chairs overlooking a peaceful beach. She often said that when she retired, that’s where she planned to be. To celebrate her years of service, her team surprised her with two real Adirondack chairs to enjoy her well-earned rest and relaxation.
Alice leaves behind a legacy. She has been a leader, mentor, and friend to many, and her presence will be deeply missed. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and well wishes as she embarks on this next journey. May her days ahead be every bit as rewarding, inspiring, and peaceful as the beach she long dreamed of.
Thank you, Alice, for your extraordinary dedication and for the lasting impact you have made on our students, staff, and our community.