TOP

INTRODUCTION
This manual has been prepared to provide Taos Municipal School Personnel, Contractors, Drivers and all interested parties with a readily available source of information affecting the administration of our transportation operation. The Transportation Department's goal is the safe, punctual and economical transportation of all eligible students.

This policy is based on Federal Safety Standard 17, State of New Mexico Regulations 95-1 and 96¬6. Excerpts from all three are included in this manual. It is impossible to cover every scenario that you may face in school transportation, but this manual endeavors to cover most areas of concern. Each employee is expected to use common sense and use good judgment, when driving and when dealing with students, parents, teachers, coaches and administrators. If any employee has a question or if any of this manual is unclear, please feel free to contact the Transportation Supervisor.

It is imperative that each administrator and transportation employee read and understands the policies outlined herein. Strict adherence to the policies outlined will not only reduce liability , but it will also help improve relations with all personnel, parents and students.
 

DEFINITIONS
Eligible Student - Those students entitled to transportation services under Federal and State regulation.
 

Individualized Education Program IEP) -A written statement for a student with a disability/ies that is developed and implemented in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations regarding individuals with disabilities and with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The IEP serves as a communication vehicle between parents and the entire educational team and enables them, as equal participants, to decide jointly what the student's needs are, what services shall be provided to meet those needs, what the anticipated outcomes maybe, and how the student's progress toward meeting the projected outcomes shall be evaluated.
 

Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) - To the maximum extent appropriate, students with disabilities, including those in public institutions or placed or referred by public agencies to private institutions or other care facilities, are educated with students who are not disabled within the most inclusive environment. Special classes, separate schooling, or other removal of students with disabilities shall occur only when the nature or severity of the disability is such that education in regular classes or other natural environments with the use of supplementary aids and services cannot be achieved satisfactorily.
 

Eligible School Bus Riders - A Taos Municipal Schools student shall be provided transportation to his or her assigned school under the following criteria:
 

Grades K-5 (Elementary): A student whose registered address is-one (I) mile or more one-way from his/her assigned school will be eligible for school bus service.
 

Grades 6-8 (Mid High): A student whose registered address is one and one-half (I 1/2) miles or more one-way from his/her assigned school will be eligible for school bus service.

Grades 9- 12 (High): A student whose registered address is two (2) miles or more one way from his/her assigned school will be eligible for bus service.
 

A student will not be afforded transportation if attending a school outside of his/her residence school unless specified by an Individual Education Plan (IEP). Transportation for attendance at another school will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian unless specified by an IEP .
 

Modified Transportation - A student who is eligible for an accommodation plan under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act may be provided modified transportation services as part of that accommodation plan. When modified transportation service is being considered, the Transportation Department may be contacted to provide technical assistance in developing the modified transportation plan. The need and justification for modified transportation services will be indicated on the 504 Plan and a Student Transportation Form will be completed by the committee who has developed the accommodation plan.
 

Services should begin three (3) to five (5) working days after receipt of the completed transportation form at the Transportation Office. The 504 Plan will indicate the duration of the provision of modified transportation services. If the duration of service cannot be determined, the committee will monitor the need for modified transportation service at regularly scheduled intervals as indicated on the 504 Plan.
 

ALL MODIFIED TRANSPORTATION REQUESTS WILL BE REVIEWED AT THE END OF EACH SCHOOL YEAR!
 

Comparable Travel Time
1. All students being transported to residence school, either on a regular route or a modified route, will arrive and depart at times that do not shorten their school day. A student receiving modified service to his/her residence school should receive reasonable
accommodation for comparable travel time with neighborhood peers who ride a regular bus.

2. Travel time for a student who is eligible for modified transportation services to a non-residence school will be determined on a case by case basis. Reasonableness of accommodation, distance from the pick-up/drop-off location(s), and routing to recommended school site will be considered in order to provide the least amount of travel time to the assigned school.
 

Delivery of Students Receiving Modified Services
When delivering a student receiving modified services and the parent/guardian is not present, the driver shall refer to the student's Confidential Emergency Information Form and will follow the steps outlined herein:

1. If on the Transportation Form, the parent/ guardian has authorized that the student can be left unattended, the driver/attendant may leave the student at the designated drop-off point.

2. If the parent/guardian has not authorized that, the student can be left unattended, the driver/attendant shall not leave the student alone, but will do the following:
A. The driver/attendant shall radio" the Central Office and have them attempt to contact the student's parent/guardian at work or at another phone number .
B. While attempting to make contact, the bus may proceed on the designated route to deliver any other passengers on board to their destinations and then return to the student's delivery point.
C. If the Central Office is still unable to make contact, the driver will transport the student back to the school. Staff will accept the student and continue to attempt to get in touch with the parent/guardian.
3. If Taos Municipal Schools staff is unable to contact the parent/guardian, or other emergency contacts, the student will then be referred to the appropriate child protective agency (police).
 

Do Not Resuscitate Requests
 

If a parent/guardian requests to withhold life saving techniques in the event of a respiratory or cardiac arrest suffered by a severely impaired or terminally ill student, the request shall not be honored. The following procedures will be followed:
1. School bus personnel will to the best of their ability , administer First Aid/CPR to all students in the event of an accident or life-threatening emergency . The driver or attendant shall radio the Central Office to activate the Emergency Medical System (911) immediately. 2. Upon arrival, EMS Personnel will then take over treatment of student(s), any decisions concerning transport or treatment will be handled by EMS.
 

Animal Transport

Only animals specified in a student's IEP or 504 Accommodation Plan may be transported on a Taos Municipal Schools Bus. The animal accompaniment must be justified on the Student's Confidential Transportation Form. A copy of the animal's current immunization record, registration, and certification, if applicable, must be attached to the Transportation Form.
 

Transportation of Prescribed Medication

It is not recommended that prescribed medicine be transported on our school buses. There may be circumstances that will require it, therefore, follow the guidelines outlined below:
1. Physician prescribed medication that is to be transported to school for use during the school day will be appropriately labeled and transported in a backpack or parcel kept in the student's possession during the route. Exception: If the student is unable to do this, the driver/attendant may care for it until the student gets to school/drop-off point, at which time it shall be given back to the student, school staff or the parent/ guardian.
 

2. No medication will be administered during the route by either the driver or the attendant. When necessary , only health care providers accompanying students as specified in an IEP or 504 Accommodation Plan will be authorized to administer medication during transport.
 

Delayed Start School Days

The delayed start school day schedule is a shortened day, which begins two (2) hours later than a regular school day. The most common use of the delayed start is during winter months when ice, snow and extremely cold temperatures occur.

A decision to delay school shall be made by the Superintendent or his/her designee. Because of the size of our district, a delayed start may not be district-wide. Notification will be given no later than 6:30 a.m.. On all delayed start days, school will start exactly two (2) hours later than normal, therefore all buses will run tWo (2) hours later than normal.
 

Contractors

The following guidelines will be used when contracting school bus services:
 

The Board of Education will have in place signed and approved contracts for providing transportation with the District before services are to begin. All contracts, contract amendments and termination of contracts will be in accordance with SBE Regulation 96-6 or any new regulation.
 

The transportation provider (contractor) will employ only certified drivers. The District will monitor driver/attendant Certification.
School buses assigned to regular routes shall not be diverted to provide transportation for activity or other purposes. Overcrowding of buses to meet the needs of activity travel shall not be allowed. A school activity shall include only transportation of school groups that are school-sponsored and Board approved.
All Transportation Providers ( contractors ) will work within the framework of the Taos Municipal Schools Board of Education Policies, as well as District Transportation Policies. Violations of said policies could result in the termination of contract services.
 

School Bus Driver

Job Requirements and Duties: All drivers must meet all training and certification requirements in order to drive for the Taos Municipal Schools. All drivers must meet the following criteria:

Essential Prerequisites
 

1. Must have an interest in and empathy for children.

2. Must possess a comprehensive knowledge of driving in a safe and courteous manner.

3. Must be at least twenty-one (21) years old;

4. Must submit a complete application, a criminal background check with crimes of violence or sex offenses, a print-out from MVD with a good driving record and no DUI's.

5. Must have or be willing to train to get the appropriate CDL license.

6. Must be willing and able to submit to and pass Federally mandated substance abuse testing as outlined in our Drug/ Alcohol Policy.

7. Must be able to pass the school bus physical examination.

8. Must have the ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions.

9. Must be able to communicate well with people including clear and understandable verbal skills.

10. Must have the writing and math skills to accurately complete assigned rosters, forms, and reports.

11. Must be able to read and interpret schedules and forms, as well as read and use a map.

12. Must be physically able to climb in and out of the bus emergency door, and must also be able to crawl under the bus.

13. Must have the ability to maintain effective pupil management.

14. Must attend in-service training and other safety meetings as required.

15. Must have a current First Aid/CPR and Defensive Driving certification.

16. Must be willing to learn to deal with students with disabilities and how to care for any special needs that they may have.
     

Primary Job Functions:

1. To operate a school bus on an assigned route or activity in a safe and timely manner.

2. Maintain, read and understand route sheets including time changes and the ability to notify your supervisor immediately of any deviations.

3. Maintain a scheduled route to establish time and mileage.

4. Exercise student management through correct use of communication and discipline in line with the Transportation Discipline Policy.

5. Operate the bus two-way radio correctly and according to FCC Regulation.

6. Inspect vehicle before and after each trip following procedures outlined in pre-service training.

7. Proper use of loading/unloading alternating flashers when picking up or dropping off students.

8. (Special Needs Drivers) operating adaptive transportation equipment, using safe and responsible procedures.

9. Maintain a cooperative attitude with fellow employees, supervisors, parents and other school personnel.

10. Must be able to take control of students on bus in an emergency situation.

11. Must be able to successfully conduct a school bus evacuation.

12. Must be able and willing to complete and turn in all required documentation to the Transportation Office in a timely and accurate manner.

13. If involved in an accident, must report it immediately to the Transportation Supervisor and then submit a written report to the Transportation Supervisor.

14. Attend all required in-service training, district required meetings and workshops, as well as state-mandated training at the New Mexico Pupil Transportation Institute the first year of hire and every third year thereafter.

School Bus Safety

Student safety is our# 1 priority! It is imperative that all drivers display a professional demeanor at all times. All drivers are to handle the bus in the safest and most courteous manner. A key element in driving safely is being punctual~ drivers who are on time don't need to rush or take unnecessary chances. Listed below are guidelines that all are expected to follow:

1. ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SEAT BELT. ON SMALL BUSES EVERYONE MUST BE BELTED IN!

2. Do Not Exceed the Posted Speed Limit! All drivers shall not under any circumstances drive his/her bus faster then 65 miles per hour. In adverse weather or unfavorable driving conditions you may be required to drive at a much lower speed.

3. A right turn on red is not permitted! Exception: if there is a yield sign at the intersection or a physical divider, you may do so.

4. Drivers shall be required to have all mirrors adjusted properly before departing.

5. Do not use the bus to make unauthorized stops. Use of the bus for personal reasons is a violation of State Regulation.

6. Use your S-way alternating flashers ONLY at designated on the road bus stops. If you use them for any other purpose, you will be in violation of both Federal and State Regulation.

7. The Transportation Office shall approve all special needs routes.

8. Student discipline is the drivers/attendants responsibility , under NO circumstances should a driver/attendant punch, slap, shove, kick or grab a Student as a means of discipline. Drivers are to follow the District Discipline Policy as closely as possible.

9. Drivers shall have the authority to suspend a student's riding privilege for one trip. The suspension would always be for the following day. Serious violations can rein a much longer suspension, but the Principal/designee of the appropriate school site would handle any such suspensions.

10. Be especially careful at intersections. Always check left right left before entering any intersection.

11. Back only when absolutely necessary, be extra cautious and check all around the bus before starting the backing procedure.

12. Maintain the proper following distance, in town at least four (4) seconds, in rural or freeway driving six (6) or more seconds are required to maintain a safe following distance.

13. Drivers shall not transport any person who is not a pupil of the Taos Municipal Schools System or an employee of the system without prior written approval from the Transportation Supervisor/designee.

14. Drivers are to heed all Federal and State Regulations concerning the use of drugs or alcohol. Violations of these guidelines will result in immediate termination.

15. All drivers are to read and become thoroughly familiar with policies set forth in this document, as well as State Regulation 95-1.

16. The driver/attendant shall comply with all needs identified in a student's IEP. The Confidential Transportation Form. must be in a secure place on the bus at all times.

17. The driver shall riot permit any passenger(s) to occupy any area in front of the passenger seating area while the bus is in motion.

18. No bus shall carry more than the rated seating capacity . All passengers are to be seated when the bus is in motion.

19. The driver shall have the authority to assign students seats. The driver must also have a current roster of students assigned to his/her bus.

20. The driver shall not permit the transportation of firearms, explosives, knives, breakable glass or other dangerous objects. Animals of any kind are not to be transported on the bus, except those authorized in a student's IEP.

21. The driver shall securely store or fasten any loose items such as tools, brooms, tire thumpers, etc.

22. Only under exceptional circumstances, shall buses be fueled while students are on the bus.

23. Due to the liability risks associated with loading and unloading students, drivers are to drop students off at designated bus stops only! EXCEPTION: a verified emergency, approved by the Principal or the Transportation Supervisor.

24. Drivers are to be firm, fair and consistent when dealing with students. District Policy MUST be followed. Remember, it takes years to develop a reputation as a safe driver; it only takes one second to lose it in an accident!
     

Bus Monitor/Assistant

A bus monitor shall be provided on buses when necessary to meet the needs of students receiving modified transportation. They will meet the following criteria:

1. Must meet all the requirements of the regular "to and from" bus driver.

2. Must complete ""Transportation for Students with Disabilities" course at the New Mexico Pupil Transportation Institute.

3. Must also attend district in-service training.

4. Must have a current First Aid/CPR Certificate.

5. Neither the driver nor the attendant shall be allowed to leave the bus to search for students at the school or at their designated pick -up or drop-off location.

School Bus Routes

All school bus routes are to be run in manner that is in line with all Federal, State and Local Laws and Regulations:

1. Notes from parents to drivers authorizing the bus driver to drop off students at a point other than their regular stop SHALL NOT BE PERMITTED (See Principal Responsibilities, part 2 for exception).

2. Established routes will not be altered unless authorized by the Transportation Supervisor.

3. The Transportation Office must clear changes in departure time.

4. Teachers and education assistants may be allowed to ride on a regular "to and from" route to assist the bus driver if authorized by the Principal and the Transportation Supervisor. If an IEP calls for it, special personnel may accompany a student during transport.

5. The Transportation Supervisor must approve all bus stops. Students shall be, grouped together at a designated area to be picked up and dropped off. Placement of such stops shall always be selected with students safety being our number-one priority.

6. School Bus Drivers shall maintain a student roster and a seating chart is
   recommended. Student rosters shall contain the following information:

    

    

   1. First and last name of all students assigned to that bus.

   2. Physical address and telephone number.

   3. Name of parent and/or guardian.
       

The school bus driver must keep this list up-to-date. Information contained on the student roster sheet shall remain confidential, but a copy must be on the bus at all times. Student rosters will be made available to school officials and law enforcement officers upon request.

7. Complaints regarding route schedules or discipline problems will be addressed to the Transportation Supervisor or the School Principal. Efforts shall be made to correct any problems.
   
    

Per Capita Feeder Reimbursement

Taos Municipal Schools may provide per-capita or per-mile reimbursement to a parent/guardian. The reimbursement applies where regular transportation is impractical because of distance, road conditions or sparseness of population.

The terms of all feeder routes will be defined in an agreement form approved by the School District. All parents receiving such reimbursement must provide proof of insurance and shall maintain the insurance for the term of the agreement, copy of valid driver's license and vehicle registration.
 

School Principal Responsibility

1. The principal in cooperation with the driver is responsible for disciplines while students are being transported "to and from" school, as well as while they are loading or unloading. In the afternoon, the bus drivers shall not be required to wait more than seven (7) minutes after the dismissal bell has rung. The driver/attendant shall not be allowed to leave the bus to search for unaccounted students. Once the buses are loaded and depart, the driver shall not be allowed to return to the school for students who have missed the bus. The Principal shall be required to make other arrangements in order to get the student(s) home (assistant principal, liaison, etc.).

2. Notes from parents authorizing the bus driver to drop off a student at a point other than his/her regular stop SHALL NOT BE PERMITTED. This is a violation of State Regulation 95- I, Section 2.3.7. If the student has a verified emergency, the principal may give the driver WRITTEN AUTHORIZATION. The authorization will state specifically at which stop the child is to be dropped off and it will also state the duration of this change.

3. Students must be registered in order to be eligible for bus transportation. Drivers shall draw up a master 1ist of registered students at the beginning of each school year.

4. The driver should handle minor discipline problems on the bus. School bus drivers must report serious infractions to the Principal in a timely manner on the appropriate form. Upon receiving a incident report the Principal shall respond as soon as possible. An immediate response is of great benefit to all.

The Principal has the authority to suspend a student from the bus, the length of the suspension will depend on the seriousness of the offense or perhaps the reoccurring misbehavior of a student. A suspension from the bus does not mean that a student is suspended from school.ln such a situation, the student's parent/guardian will be responsible for getting the student to and from school.

In the event the Principal feels it necessary to suspend a student with a disability from the bus, the Taos Municipal Schools must comply with all Federal and State Regulations. A student with disabilities may not be denied bus service for more than ten (10) days, either cumulative or consecutively in a school year. If the student is a threat to the safety of the bus, the IEP Committee shall meet and discuss alternatives to correct the problem.

The driver does, however , have the authority to temporarily suspend a student from the bus for a maximum of one (1) trip. The suspension would always be for the following day. Drivers may suspend a student for one or more of the following infractions:
 

1. After the second incident report has been turned into the principal. Any action by a student that endangers the safety of the bus, bus driver and/or other students on the bus or individuals inside or outside of the bus.

2. Use of or possession of tobacco, drugs, alcohol, etc.

3. Fighting or harassing others on the bus. Carrying firearms or other dangerous objects (knives, explosives, etc. ).

4. Vandalism to the bus or a passing vehicle.
    

In the event a driver does suspend a student for one (1) trip, the Principal and the students parents must be notified. In cases of flagrant misbehavior (smoking, possession of or the drinking of alcohol, violent behavior toward other students or the driver, malicious vandalism to the bus or passing vehicles) the Principal or the Transportation Supervisor may require that the parent/guardian of said student be called to pick up their child. In certain instances due to the nature of the crime, the Police shall be called and the offending student(s) shall be arrested. SERIOUS VIOLATIONS OF THIS NATURE MAY RESULT IN SUSPENSION FROM THE BUS FOR A MINIMUM OF FIVE (5) DAYS AND UP TO ONE (1)YEAR.

5. All requests for school schedule changes or deviations shall be submitted to the Transportation Supervisor and approved by the Superintendent at least two (2) weeks in advance of the proposed change.

6. The Principal is responsible for reporting late arriving or missing bus service to the Transportation Supervisor.

7. The Principal should be available until all students have been delivered home in the afternoon.

8. The Principal is responsible for the timely submitting of travel requests. Transportation requests must be received by the Transportation Office five (5) days prior to the departure date. If for some reason the trip is canceled, it is the Principal's responsibility to inform the Transportation Office.

9. All activity travel must be funded from sources other than "to and from" monies. It is, therefore, imperative that the Principal be responsible when it comes to activity travel. He/she is to ensure that funding sources are available to pay for each activity trip. The Transportation Office will assume that any and all requests signed by the Principal meet program, budget and funding requirements.

10. The Principal is responsible for seeing that bus drivers are provided with meals and of the students, sponsors, coaches and the driver require that the driver be able to relax and get a full nights sleep.

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

For safe riding on the school bus, parents/guardians are part of a successful team effort. Their responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

1. Are expected to encourage their children to learn and obey the school bus safety rules and to exhibit appropriate conduct while on the way to or from the bus stop, at the bus stop and while on the bus.

2. Are responsible for instructing their children about the location of their bus stop and advising them to get off only at their designated stop.

3. Are expected to have their children at the designated stop at least five (5) minutes before the bus's scheduled arrival time.

4. Are responsible for observed acts of vandalism of the bus, private property or school property . Such conduct shall not be tolerated, restitution will be sought.

5. Parents/guardians cannot be transported on a to and from bus route.

6. Are to arrange for their students to have all necessary supplies, materials, etc., in pouch, packet or backpack. In line with State Regulation, animals are not to be transported on the bus unless specified in the student's IEP

Toys, items in glass containers, or other dangerous objects, as well as large instruments or class projects shall not be transported on the bus. The aisle and the doors must be kept clear at all times. If an item is too large for the student to hold, it cannot be transported on the bus.

7. Prescribed medication that is to be transported to school for use during the day must be appropriately labeled and transported in a backpack or parcel and kept in the students possession during transport. Exception- if the student is unable to do this, the driver may care for it until the student gets to school.

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL THE DRIVER/ATTENDANT ADMINISTER MEDICATION!
Only health care providers accompanying students as specified in the student's IEP will be authorized to administer medication during transport.

Parents/guardians of students receiving modified transportation services shall:

1. Cooperate in filling out the Confidential Information Form as required by State Regulation. It must include address and emergency phone numbers.

2. Modified transportation will begin three (3) to five (5) school days after the Transportation Office has received a completed Transportation Form from the IEP Committee. All affected parties will be informed if route reconfiguration will exceed the five-day limit.

3. Allow three (3) to five (5) days for any changes inpick-up/drop-off locations. The driver is not allowed to change or modify a route.

4. Have the student ready to board the bus upon arrival. If the bus is running oIl time, the driver shall not be required to wait more than three (3) minutes for a late child.

5. Parents shall be required to send their child to the designated bus stop. If
   wheelchair-bound, the parent or other family member shall roll the student out to the bus. The driver/attendant are not allowed to leave the bus.

Student Responsibilities

In order to ensure the safety of all students whether on the bus, walking to or from the bus, or loading/unloading the following guidelines shall be observed:

1. Students who are compelled to walk a distance to meet the bus must walk on the side of the road facing traffic, except on divided or multi-lane roadways.

2. Students must be at their designated bus stop five ( 5) minutes before the scheduled arrival time. The bus driver will not wait for students not making an effort to reach the bus. Students receiving modified service shall be ready at the assigned pick-up time.

3. Students shall exhibit safe and appropriate behavior when waiting for and boarding the bus.

4. Students must obey the driver promptly. Other staff may be assigned to ride the bus, they too are authorized to enforce student discipline.

5. Students shall not get on or off the bus while it is in motion. They must remain seated and keep the aisle and exits clear.

6. They must sit in seat assigned by the driver. On small buses, all passengers must wear a seat belt.

7. Students shall not tamper with the bus, they are not to sit in the driver's seat.

8. Students should not carry unnecessary conversation with the bus driver.

9. Students shall not use lewd or profane language on the bus, neither shall they use obscene gestures. They should exhibit a cooperative attitude.

10. Rough or boisterous conduct will not be permitted on the bus. Students will not be allowed to throw things in or outside of the bus.

11. Students shall not eat or drink on the bus. They should cooperate with the driver in keeping the bus clean.

12. Students should remember that misconduct on the bus not only endangers their safety but the safety of everyone on the bus.

13. Students must keep hands, arms, head and other body parts inside the bus.

14. Firearms, knives, explosives, breakable glass, other dangerous objects, reptiles and animals shall not be allowed on the bus. A STUDENT WHO BRINGS A FIREARM, KNIFE OR OTHER DANGEROUS OBJECT ON THE BUS IS SUBJECT TO A ONE (I) YEAR SUSPENSION FROM SCHOOL!

15. Students must not open windows without permission of the driver.

16. The possession, use or distribution of tobacco, drugs or alcohol shall not be tolerated and shall result in suspension of riding privilege.

17. Any student under the influence of drugs or alcohol shall not be transported on the bus.

18. Students shall not ride on the outside of the bus or attach anything to the bus.

19. Parents shall be held responsible for malicious damage done to the bus.

20. Students who must cross the street to either load or unload the bus must walk at least eight (8) to ten (10) feet in front of the bus. They must not cross until they get an all clear signal from the driver. Students shall not be allowed to cross multi-lane/divided roads or heavily traveled roads.

Student Discipline Policy

Each driver should endeavor to control the students on the bus. Drivers should become thoroughly familiar with this Policy and then work to follow it. All drivers should avoid the use of profane or abusive language, At no time will a driver try to physically discipline a student. Doing so will not be tolerated.

General Guidelines in Dealing with Students:

1. Be friendly, but let them know who is in charge!

2. Set rules early on and make sure they are understood.

3. Be firm, fair and consistent.

4. Maintain control at all times.

5. Know your students and become familiar with your surroundings.

6. Know what to do and when to do it!

7. Involve your students, assign evacuation helpers early, and teach them what they
   need to know and what is required of them.

8. Keep a positive attitude!
    

Examples of Conduct Considered Minor Infractions:

1. Loud talking and/or yelling.

2. Throwing paper or shooting paper spit wads.

3. Leaving trash or other debris on the bus.

4. Using profanity and/or making offensive hand signs.

5. Student(s) who are constantly late to the bus.

6. Failing to follow driver instructions.

7. Putting head, hands, arms or other parts of the body outside the bus.

8. Wrestling with or pushing other students.

9. Failure to remain seated while the bus is in motion.

10. Jumping over seats.

Examples of Major Infractions:

1. Any action that endangers the safety of the bus, the driver or other students.

2. Use or possession of tobacco, drugs, alcohol, etc.

3. Deliberate disregard for safety (opening the emergency door, trying to ride on the
   outside of the bus) etc.

4. Vandalism to the bus.

5. Bringing firearms, knives or other dangerous objects on the bus.

6. Fighting.

7. Harassing driver, students and others, inside or outside of the bus.
    

Steps to Follow in Handling Discipline on the Bus

Student transportation is a privilege, not a right, that is extended to all eligible students. Students who choose to break rules may lose their transportation privilege. The school bus driver is in full charge of pupils when they are riding the school bus. All serious discipline problems will be turned over to the Principal on the proper form, and in a timely manner. The bus driver shall have the authority to suspend a student's riding privilege for one (l) trip. The driver will notify the Principal of this action and the Principal in turn shall notify the parents, further disciplinary problems may result in riding privileges being revoked for an extended time or even permanently. Student riding privileges may be revoked permanently for the following: student under the influence of alcohol or drugs, guilty of destruction of school property , being in possession of a firearm, a knife, explosives, causing bodily harm to a fellow student or the driver or threatening bodily ham1 to a passenger or the bus driver.

The permanent suspension of a student shall be at the discretion of the Superintendent. Permanent suspension from the bus may be appealed to the Board of Education upon request to the Superintendent.

Drivers shall follow the steps outlined below:

1. Driver must read and handout a copy of the Bus Rules (explain them).

2. A verbal warning shall be given to a student guilty of a minor infraction.

3. If the student does not desist from the inappropriate behavior, another verbal warning shall be given to include a reminder that an incident report will be given if the drivers instructions are not followed.

4. If the student fails to follow the direction of the driver, he/she will fill out an incident report (the driver will need to deliver a copy to the Principal and in most cases should discuss the problem with the Principal). The Principal shall then meet with the student to try and correct the behavior and he/she may choose to call the parents in for a conference.

5. If the student continues to ignore the driver's direction, the driver shall fill out a second incident report and follow the same procedure as step four( 4). The driver now has the option of suspending the student for one trip. The suspension would always be for the following day so parents can be notified. The Principal shall have a conference with the student's parents.

Depending on the Severity of the Violation. The Principal May Elect to Suspend the student(s) for a longer period. A Conference with Parents Shall be Required!

The above order of application in discipline steps apply to minor infractions. If a student is guilty of a major infraction, the driver is to immediately go to Step #4.

What to do... When all else fails (i.e. a bus load of students out of control)
 

1. Stop any further attempts to discipline students.

2. Contact your Supervisor for assistance by radio.

3. Pull off the road in a safe location and wait for further instructions.

4. The Supervisor will attempt to contact the Principal; if within a reasonable distance, you may be advised to return to the school.

If unable to reach the Principal, someone shall be sent to help you control the students.

If you are near the end of the route, it may be best to go to Step #4 of the policy.

Students Receiving Modified Transportation Services

Discipline procedures for students with disabilities shall be specified in their Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

 

1. The IEP Committee shall identify the student's individual behavioral needs related to their area of disability and shall specify appropriate intervention strategies, support services, or other methods of responding to a student's behavioral needs. The student's capacity to understand and follow transportation rules shall be considered in the discipline plan documented in the IEP.

2. A component shall be included in the IEP that addresses the behavioral needs of the student while on the bus. The bus driver/attendant should be made aware of this component.

3. If an incident or behavior occurs which may result in a student receiving modified services being suspended from the bus, the IEP Committee shall reconvene to review the IEP and develop or modify discipline procedures for the student.

Nothing contained herein shall prevent the emergency removal of a student with a disability from a bus if the student endangers or reasonably appears to endanger the health, welfare, or safety of him/herself or any other student, teacher, or bus personnel.
 

1. When emergency removal of student from a bus becomes necessary , the student's parents shall be notified immediately. A written report shall be filed with the Principal and a copy given to the parents.

2. The IEP Committee shall reconvene to determine if the student's conduct results from his/her disability and to recommend appropriate modifications or alternative transportation services.

3. A suspension from services may be up to ten (10) days in a school year. Suspensions for a longer period constitutes a "change in placement", requiring a reassessment of the child's program through the IEP process.

4. If the IEP Committee recommends an alternative transportation arrangement and the parents refuse, the District may seek permission from the Court to change the student's placement.

It is imperative that the bus driver/attendant understand each child's exceptionality and specific medical, health and behavior needs. It is to the student's benefit if the driver/attendant are given all pertinent information on the child and that necessary management information be passed on to allow them the opportunity to better understand the child's needs. This will aid them greatly in dealing with the child. As much information as possible should be shared on the

Student's Confidential Information Form.
 

Accident Policy

All Transportation Personnel involved in an accident shall follow the procedures outlined in this manual (buses, service trucks or other school vehicles).
 

• STOP IMMEDIATELY.

• Remain calm, call the Central Office, they shall call the appropriate law enforcement agency and/or emergency rescue personnel. Give specific details about your location, the severity of the collision, number of injured (if any), and type of injury.

• Protect the Scene! Place reflectors in the appropriate position. Do Not Leave The Scene

• Render reasonable assistance to any passengers who have been injured.

• If necessary , evacuate the bus, have students walk to a designated area, away from the bus in a safe area. Do Not Allow the Students to Leave!

• If one of our buses is involved in a collision, which results in a serious injury or possible hospitalization, the District shall leave it to the discretion of the EMS Professionals as to the advisability of transporting any injured victims to the appropriate medical facility.

• If the accident results in injury to the driver, attendant, student(s), pedestrian, or other vehicle occupant, the Transportation Supervisor/designee shall notify the State Transportation Department as soon as possible by telephone.

• If a School Bus is involved in a collision in which a possible mechanical failure is a contributing factor, the Transportation Supervisor/designee shall notify the State Transportation Department as soon as possible for further direction. The possible defective part(s) must be protected and untampered with until direction is received from the State Department.

• If a School Bus is involved in a collision, which results in the death of the driver, attendant, student(s), pedestrian or other vehicle occupant, the State School Transportation Department shall be notified IMMEDIATELY BY TELEPHONE.

• Vital information shall be written down by the driver/attendant to document the accident: name of other driver, license number, registration, time; location, road and weather conditions, a list of all passengers and their seating location, or any other pertinent information.

• MAKE NO ADMISSION OF LIABILITY, DO NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE COLLISION!

• Provisions for transporting students to their homes or to school shall be made by the Transportation Supervisor; normally, another bus will be called.

• A driver involved in an accident shall be required to meet with the Transportation Supervisor to fill out the appropriate accident report. This must be done within three (3) working days of the accident. The Transportation Supervisor shall then make sure that the accident is sent to the State Department as required. ALL ACCIDENTS ARE TO BE REPORTED, regardless of how minor!

• In collisions that involve serious injury or death, the State School Transportation Department will conduct a complete investigation. The vehicle shall be impounded until such time as the investigation is complete. If a student is killed in a School Bus Accident, the US Department of Transportation may also conduct an investigation.
   

Plan of Action for Emergencies

Each School Bus Driver must have a "Plan of Action" in case of an emergency. This plan should include both breakdowns and accidents and should incorporate procedures for evacuating the bus, using all emergency exits. Practice evacuations shall be conducted at least twice a year to meet the State Mandate.

Drill shall be conducted in the following manner:
 

1. Everyone exits through the front service door.

2. Everyone exits through the rear emergency door.

3. The front half of the bus exits the service door and the back half exits the rear emergency door.

Newer buses may have a side emergency door, roof hatches, or push out windows. Children shall be instructed in the proper use of this equipment.

Important reminders to ensure the safe evacuation of the bus in an emergency or when conducting drills :

 

1. The safety of all students and passengers is our primary concern!

2. All drills are to be conducted on school property and properly supervised by a staff member or Principal.

3. If the driver is incapacitated, student helpers should be trained using the following guidelines:

1. Student Helper Qualifications

1. More mature students

2. Good citizenship qualities

3. Must be a leader

4. Helpers in the rear or side of the bus MUST be bigger students in order to help others out of the bus

5. Helpers will normally live near the end of the route

2. Student Helpers should learn how to:

   1. Turn off the ignition switch, set the parking/emergency brake, use the two-way radio, open the roof hatch/side windows, how to use reflector and where to set them.

   2. Open and close all doors, account for all students and maintain order, help smaller students off the bus, perform other assignments as needed.

   3. Written consent from parents should be obtained prior to assigning a student as a helper.

4. The driver shall be the last one to exit the bus. He/she should ensure, jf at all possible, that all students have left the bus. The bus ignition must be OFF and the parking brake set!

5. Students should be taught to leave all personal items on the bus. Exception: coat or jacket.

6. Students are to move to a designated area at least 100 ft. away from the bus in a safe, secure area and are to stay there until instructed otherwise.

7. If the bus is stalled on a railroad track, the bus must be evacuated IMMEDIATELY. If a train is approaching, the students shall be directed to an area away from the track but in the direction of the oncoming train. This would prevent them from being hit by flying debris.

ALL SCHOOL BUS EVACUATION PROCEDURES SHALL BE REVIEWED WITH ALL BUS STUDENTS TO ENSURE THE SAFE EVACUATION IN CASE OF ANY AND ALL EMERGENCIES.

A "Plan of Action" must be displayed on the inside of the bus for review by supervisory personnel and for the benefit of any substitute driver who may be driving!