Here are some key points to ensure a smooth and safe experience for all students:
Designated Bus Stop:
Each student is assigned a designated bus stop. Students may enter and exit the school bus ONLY at their designated stop unless a bus pass is provided to the driver upon entering the bus. Notes from parents to the bus driver are not considered bus passes. If you need to make changes to your child(ren)’s designated stop, parents must contact the school to obtain a bus pass. See bus passes below. Please understand that safety and security are at the forefront of this rule and it is not meant to hurt or inconvenience any of our families.
Bus Passes:
If for any reason your student needs to ride a bus other than their designated bus, they will need a bus pass from the school office before boarding the bus. A written note or phone call from a parent or guardian to the school office is required for the student to receive a bus pass.
Sleepovers:
We understand that due to an emergency, some students may need to sleep overnight at a friend’s house during the school week. In such cases, parents will need to send a note to the main office so that the bus drivers are aware of the temporary change. Students cannot just show up at another bus stop that is not assigned to them. This ensures that the bus driver is informed and the student’s safety is maintained.
Bus Stop:
Please have your student at the stop at least 5 minutes before the scheduled bus arrival time. Students should walk to the bus stop using sidewalks (when available), walk with other students, and wear bright clothing or reflective material. Students must respect other students and the property of others. Students must stay twelve feet back from the bus stop until the door opens. Unauthorized crossing of a highway or private road by the student will result in a Level II citation. If you need to change your child(ren)’s bus stop, please contact your child’s school.
K4- 1st Grade Students:
All students in K4 - 1st grade must be met by a parent or a designated person (over the age of 18), as listed on the student's emergency card, to be released at their bus stop. If the parent or designated person is not at the bus stop, the student will be returned to the school. After three "no-shows" from a parent or designated person, the student will receive a bus citation as a warning. If the parent or designated person continues to be absent at the bus stop, a second citation will be issued, possibly resulting in the student being temporarily removed from the bus service. Parents may choose to have a signed walk note on file at the school stating their child may be released from the bus without adult supervision.
Parent Drop-Off Reminder:
Parent drop-off at the elementary school is from 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM on the cafeteria side of the building. If you are dropping off your child late, please park your car and walk your child into the school to sign them in. For safety reasons, please do not park in the bus and fire lanes to drop your child off. Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our drop-off process safe and efficient!
Behavior:
Students are expected to behave in a safe and controlled manner. Misbehavior may result in a citation and time off the bus. If a student receives a citation, the driver will attempt to contact the parent or guardian. The citation will be sent home with the student (if possible) or mailed. Please review the citation with your student, sign it, and return it to the driver.
Video/Audio Recording on School Transportation:
The Board authorizes the use of video and audio recording on school buses and school vehicles for disciplinary and security purposes. This measure aims to ensure the safety and well-being of all students and staff while traveling to and from school and school-related activities. By implementing these measures, the district aims to create a safe and secure environment for all students during their transportation to and from school. For more information regarding this procedure, review Board Policy #810.2
Bus Evacuation Drills
According to Board Policy and State Law, the district is required to conduct two bus evacuation drills each school year. These drills are essential for ensuring that all students are familiar with the procedures to safely evacuate the bus in the event of an emergency. For the 2024-25 school year, we have scheduled the bus evacuation drills for Wednesday, September 4, 2024, and Wednesday, March 26, 2025. All students who ride the bus will participate in these drills, and we appreciate your support in helping us maintain a safe transportation environment for everyone.
Any questions or concerns may be directed to your child(ren)’s school or to Mr. Glenn Gaye.
Thank you for your attention to these important matters.