Wesley Kwiatek, a fifth-grade student, still treasures the knitted Santa hat given to him by Reitz back in kindergarten.
Describing the hat, Wesley said, “It just stands out because it’s knitted. It’s done in a good way. You just can’t lose it.”
Deborah Bosworth, a third-grade teacher, highlighted that the school bus driver’s knitted hats demonstrate her care for the children, making it understandable why she is their favorite. Bridgit, Reitz’s daughter and a school monitor, takes pride in her mother’s hat project. When she wears the knitted hats, she often receives compliments due to their eye-catching nature.
Despite using her own money for materials, Reitz is fortunate to receive numerous gift cards from the families of the students. These gift cards are then used to purchase more yarn for her knitting projects.
In addition to winter hats, Reitz also knits blankets and scarves, gifting them to friends, family, and charitable organizations in need. Her charitable contributions aim to keep the less fortunate warm during New York’s harsh winter weather.
Having been a bus driver for 29 years, the school district recognized Reitz for her exceptional connection with the children. In her early 60s, she shows no signs of slowing down, already starting to knit hats for the next winter’s bus riders.
Despite her long tenure, the dedicated bus driver rarely took a sick day, emphasizing her commitment to always be there for the children. Reitz expressed that driving for them has not only been a job but has also helped her maintain a youthful spirit, as shared with WGRZ-TV
