School Bus Safety Rules

August 13, 2019by cowest

As the school year officially begins, children are now filing back onto school buses.  We have discussed the rigorous inspections buses go through to make sure they are safe for children, as well as traffic laws.  However, what about safety ON the bus, and at the bus stop?  This is where we will wrap up our three- part safety series.

Safety on the bus:

To ensure safety for students on their ride to and from school, school districts have put into effect “School Bus Code of Conduct” rules.  Whether urban, suburban or rural, following the rules of safety and conduct is a requirement for every student.  Below is a compiled list of rules from districts across the state.

  • Arrive at the bus stop 5 minutes prior to scheduled pick-up time in the morning.
  • Stand at a safe distance from the curb or roadway, and wait for the bus to come to a complete stop and for the doors to open before approaching the bus.
  • When crossing the road, always cross 10 feet in front of the bus and wait for the driver’s signal to cross. Students should NEVER cross behind a school bus.
  • If something is dropped in the road, the student should let the bus driver know right away before trying to retrieve it.
  • Students shall follow the instructions of the bus driver or assistants at all times. Rude or disrespectful behavior that distracts the driver will not be tolerated.
  • Students must respect fellow passengers. Student must not abuse other students or their property.
  • Students must remain seated, face forward, and keep aisles clear. Students shall speak in normal tones; loud, rude, vulgar or obscene language is prohibited.
  • All items carried by student must remain under their control at all times and must be carried in the lap or be able to fit under the seat.
  • No eating, drinking or spitting inside the bus. Paper or other debris is not to be left inside the bus.
  • Students must not throw anything inside or outside the bus.
  • Students shall not abuse District property or trespass on private property.
  • Students may leave the bus only at their designated stops. Permission must be granted in advance to ride an unassigned bus, with the appropriate documentation.  Only authorized students and school personnel may ride or board the bus.
  • Cell phone usage should be limited to texting, video games, or listening to music (with headphones or earbuds).
  • State law and/or District policy prohibits the following items on school buses:
    • Alcohol/Drugs/Tobacco
    • Glass items
    • Legally prohibited substances
    • Weapons or Explosives
    • Fireworks (including smoke or stink bombs)
    • Animals, insects or reptiles
    • Other dangerous items
  • No opening or exiting the rear emergency door.
  • Keep the bus clean and damage free.

                 KNOW THE RULES.              FOLLOW THE RULES.              STAY SAFE.

Familiarity and compliance with these rules will help ensure the safety and comfort of all students.  Colorado/West Equipment, Inc. and Nebraska/Central Equipment, Inc., together with Blue Bird, make your child’s safety our business.  We look forward to serving your needs.

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