Grainger County, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – A former Grainger County Schools bus contractor has been accused of failing to distribute nearly $30,000 in bonuses and raises intended for drivers, according to a report released by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office.
The report, published May 26, outlines findings from an investigation into missing payments that were approved by the Grainger County School Board between 2021 and 2025.
Investigators say five former drivers reported they never received the $450 per-route bonuses promised during that time. However, documents labeled “Bus Driver Receipt of Bonus Pay” included signatures for each driver.
According to the report, only one driver acknowledged signing one of the forms, while all others said they did not sign the documents or authorize anyone to sign on their behalf.
In addition to the missing bonuses, the contractor is also accused of failing to distribute $649 in raises for the 2024-2025 school year.
The total amount of unaccounted funds is $27,539.
The comptroller’s office said investigators were unable to locate the contractor, whose agreement with the school district ended in June 2025, and no documentation was provided explaining what happened to the money.
