This school bus driver asked every kid on his bus what they wanted for Christmas, and bought them all gifts

A Texas bus driver spread love with no expectation of reward — and ended up receiving one anyway.

Most people can imagine why driving a school bus might be a tough job: early mornings, unpredictable weather, and the enormous responsibility of keeping dozens of kids safe. But for Curtis Jenkins, who drives students to Lake Highlands Elementary in Dallas, Texas, the job is a calling — not a burden.

“He goes way beyond the responsibilities of a bus driver,” said Emily, one of the school staff members. “That bus is like a family.”

To Curtis, the children he transports aren’t passengers — they’re his kids. His community. His heart.

To build that sense of belonging, Curtis created a system where every child has a unique responsibility. It’s an elaborate flowchart that transforms the bus into a small, supportive community where every student plays a role.

“I put time, effort, love, and care into understanding each and every one of those kids,” he said.

And he proves it every day. Curtis gives out thoughtful gifts throughout the year, each one chosen specifically for the child receiving it. When one girl wrote a book, he surprised her with a custom T-shirt printed with her story’s artwork — hoping it would encourage her to keep writing.

Over time, he has bought bikes, backpacks, birthday cards, and even turkeys for Thanksgiving — spending thousands of dollars of his own money. Yet if you ask the kids what they love most about Curtis, they hardly mention the gifts at all.

“He helps anyone in need,” sixth grader Ethan Ingle said. For Ethan, the bus ride with Curtis is often the best part of his day.

“My mom got divorced when I was four,” he shared. “He’s the father I always wanted. In some ways, I wish my dad could have been like that.”

Curtis proves that no job is small when it’s done with meaning.
“That’s the paycheck right there,” he said. “If I can get that, you can keep the money.”

He wasn’t looking for a reward — but kindness found him anyway. After his story aired on the news, an anonymous viewer contacted the school superintendent, Jeannie Stone, with a special gift.

“When you leave here today,” she told him, “you’re going to be driving this brand-new car!”

Along with the car came a promotion: Curtis now trains others on building stronger, more compassionate relationships with students.

For a man who poured love into every mile of his job, 2019 turned out to be one unforgettable ride.