In honor of World Kindness Day on November 13, the Saugerties Central School District was especially thankful for the people who work every day to uplift its students. One shining example was First Student school bus driver Andrew Fisco, whose kindness brings warmth and positivity to every ride.
After a long career working for New York State, 69-year-old Andrew Fisco joined First Student as a bus driver, and he has become known for his generous spirit.
Recently, Fisco’s kindness stood out during a trip with the school’s varsity and junior varsity volleyball teams. Varsity coach Ashley Werner shared in a letter to Saugerties transportation supervisor Kristin Wilhelm that, from the moment they boarded, Fisco’s positive attitude made the trip special. When one player realized her iPad was dead, he offered his own charger to keep her connected. Throughout the game, Fisco cheered the girls on from the stands and was there afterward to congratulate them on their win. During a dinner stop, he even offered to buy their meals. When asked why he wanted to pay for their meals, Fisco answered, “I was so proud of how well they played.”
This is just a glimpse of the care Fisco shows every day. Known for handing out holiday candy and always being ready with a smile, he treats the students like family. “These kids are like my kids,” he says. “They keep me young.” For Fisco, spreading joy and encouragement isn’t just a job; it’s a calling to bring out the best in others. “Every person has something good inside of them,” he shared. “I just try to seek it out by talking to them, asking them how they are doing and encouraging them to keep working hard at school.”
Students, coaches and even Wilhelm say the same thing — Fisco’s positivity is inspiring. Grade 7 student Torran Latham describes him as “very kind,” while Wilhelm says he makes her job easier just by being there.
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