Bus Expectations

• Students should arrive at their stop 10 minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
• For safety reasons, buses will not make sudden stops for late passengers. If a student misses the bus, a parent or guardian can take them to the next stop for pickup.
• Passengers should avoid the “danger zone,” or the 10-foot area around the outside of the bus. School bus drivers may not be able to see pedestrians in this area.
• Students should wait for the driver’s signal before crossing in front of the bus.
• To ensure student safety, parents or guardians must wait at the bus stop with their Pre-K, kindergarten, and first-grade children before and after school, in accordance with School Board Policy EEAB-RZ.

• If a young Pre-K, kindergarten, and first-grade student’s parent or guardian is not waiting at the bus stop in the afternoon, the driver will finish their route with the child remaining safely on the bus. Afterward, the student will be transported to a centralized after-school pickup location. Staff will supervise the student and contact the parent/guardian to arrange for pick-up.
• Sometimes, a student falls asleep or gets distracted and misses their bus stop in the afternoon. If Transportation staff miss the opportunity to drop off a Pre-K through fifth-grade student, they will be transported to a centralized pickup location. Staff will supervise the student and contact the parent/guardian to arrange for pickup.

To ensure a safe and comfortable ride for all students:

• Belongings should fit on a student’s lap and not take up additional seat space.
• Passengers should remain seated while the bus is in motion and keep feet out of the aisle.
• Students should never extend their arms, hands, or heads out of the windows.
• Passengers must keep their voices at a reasonable volume to help drivers stay focused.
• Students should avoid eating and drinking on the bus.
• Oversized items, live animals, and glass objects are prohibited.

Students are also expected to follow School Board Policy JFC while riding the bus. This outlines conduct expectations and prohibits bullying, smoking, drug use, and profane or obscene language or conduct. Any policy violations will result in appropriate disciplinary action.

If you have questions, please contact the Department of Transportation at (434) 515-5100.