DOJ opens probe after Pennsylvania bus driver fired for posting “no speaking Spanish” sign
The U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division announced an inquiry after Diane Crawford, a 66-year-old Juniata County bus driver of about 35 years, was suspended and fired for posting a sign that said students should not speak Spanish on her bus.
- Incident: Diane Crawford posted a sign reading “Out of respect to English-only students, there will be no speaking Spanish on this bus.”
- Action taken: Crawford was suspended and then terminated following a review by Juniata County School District and contractor Rohrer Bus.
- Federal response: The DOJ Civil Rights Division, led by U.S. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon, announced an investigation after the story aired on CBS 21.
- Sources and reporting: Coverage is based on reporting by Local21/CBS21, ABC3340, and a CBS 21 video.
Investigation and reactions
On Dec. 22, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division announced it was opening an inquiry into the firing. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon shared the story on X and directed her office to review the matter, which drew hundreds of public comments — many backing Crawford and criticizing the district’s decision.
Public response was sharply divided: some commentators framed the termination as part of a broader dispute over language and school discipline, while supporters of the district argued the sign singled out students and violated school transportation standards. The DOJ probe will examine potential civil-rights implications; as of Dec. 22, 2025, there were no additional public updates from the department.
Crawford’s account
Crawford told CBS 21 she posted the sign after a “rowdy bilingual student” repeatedly disrupted the bus while speaking Spanish. She said she had previously reported behavior problems and sought help that she says never came.
“My intention was to calm the bus and protect English-only students, not to target Spanish speakers,” Crawford told reporters; she also said she had not been given a chance to explain her actions before being terminated.
Crawford — a 66-year-old driver with about 35 years of service — said losing the job has been a “nightmare.” She described relying on Medicare, Medicaid and SNAP and said she felt thrown under the bus by the district. Crawford expressed gratitude for public support and for the DOJ investigation. A video of her interview is available via the CBS 21 video.
District and contractor response
Juniata County School District and contractor Rohrer Bus issued a joint statement saying they reviewed the incident “in accordance with policy and procedures” and concluded Crawford admitted to posting the sign. They said her conduct violated the professional standards expected of those who transport students and that suspension followed by termination was the result of careful consideration.
The district noted staff completed Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission training on April 17, 2025, and emphasized it seeks to maintain a safe, respectful, and professional environment on buses. Officials said the proper process was followed and they stand by their decision. Further regional coverage is available at ABC3340.
Legal and civil-rights questions
The DOJ Civil Rights Division’s review will focus on whether Crawford’s firing involved violations of federal civil-rights law, including protections based on national origin or language. The inquiry may request documents, interviews, and examine whether the sign or subsequent actions violated statutory protections.
Observers note the scope of such probes varies — some lead to document requests and interviews, others to settlements or enforcement actions. Likely materials for review include the district’s internal review and training records, complaints filed by students or parents, and Crawford’s reported complaints about student behavior.
Reporting and source notes
This account draws on interviews and reporting first aired by CBS 21 and picked up by regional outlets. Key reporting is available at Local21/CBS21, ABC3340, and the CBS 21 video of Diane Crawford’s interview.
Implications for San Luis Obispo, California
Although Juniata County schools have few direct financial ties to San Luis Obispo, the case may prompt local districts to reassess policies on language use, discipline, and staff training. Potential impacts include added spending on training, legal reviews, and policy updates if similar disputes arise locally.
Socially and politically, the DOJ’s involvement brings national debate into local education discussions. San Luis Obispo’s bilingual communities — including agricultural workers and families — may be particularly sensitive to an “English-only” sign and federal scrutiny. Local leaders might hold workshops or town halls to address concerns and explain policies.
Practical applications for residents
- Review reporting procedures: School districts should verify staff know how to report misconduct and ensure reporting paths are clear to parents.
- Check training records: Districts should confirm bus drivers and staff have up-to-date training and documentation, including human-relations training.
- Community engagement: Consider public meetings, workshops, and clear communications showing steps to prevent discrimination while maintaining safety.
- Policy clarity: Update and publish policies on language, bullying, and discipline so families understand expectations and remedies.
Reporting note: This story is based on reporting by Local21/CBS21, ABC3340, and the CBS 21 video of Diane Crawford’s interview.
