JEFFERSON, Ga. — Vic and Sue Jones, along with their special friend Truckin’ Teddy, received the ACS MultiMedia Trucker Buddy Driver of the Month award for July.

Truckin’ Teddy, a large stuffed bear that travels with Vic and Sue and also “writes” to the schoolchildren, has been a big hit with the second graders in Deanna Reed’s Southport Elementary School, Indianapolis, Ind. But the postcards, educational items and annual scrapbook Vic and Sue compile for their class also played a part in their selection as Trucker Buddies of the Month.

“We have learned so much from them. They’ve sent us hundreds of postcards so that we can follow their journeys around North America,” Reed said. “As they travelled, they also sent us other interesting items. We’ve received a huge tumbleweed from Oklahoma, oranges from Florida, cotton from Georgia, Texas Ranger badges, a book about Seminole Indians and candy and wooden Klompen shoes from Holland, Mich. Sue always writes an explanation with each surprise so that we all know as much information as possible.”

The children feel the same way.

“This is about our Trucker Buddies Vic and Sue who I like a lot. They’ve even been to Canada. I’ve learned there are some cool places in the world,” wrote student Justin. “Their job is interesting because they go around buying us postcards and oranges, beads, and other things.”

The Jones’, better known to many as Rabbi and Kachina Doll, are leased to Con-Way Now in Ann Arbor, Mich. The couple, from Kansas City, Mo., has been paired with Reed’s class for three years.

“One of the most exciting items that this past class received was the flag that Vic and Sue displayed on their truck as they drove in a huge convoy in Florida for Special Olympics,” Reed related. “The kids loved hearing about the convoy.”

Sue also kept track of the questions and comments each child wrote throughout the year and then talked to each one personally about their questions.

“I have appreciated their genuine love for the children and their sincerity in wanting each child to listen to their parents and teachers and learn all they can in school,'” Reed added. “I really feel like we’re buddies.”

The Jones and Trucker Teddy are among nearly 4,000 other professional drivers who share their time with elementary classes throughout the world. Drivers and teachers can find out more about the program by visiting www.truckerbuddy.org or calling 1-800-MY BUDDY.