PROFESSIONAL
SCHOOL BUS DRIVER
AND
PARAPROFESSIONAL
HANDBOOK
SCHOOL BOARD OF SAINT LUCIE COUNTY
REVISED AUGUST 2008
1
School Bus Handbook 2008-2009
Table of Contents
Director’s Welcome
2008 – 2009 Transportation Calendar / Early Dismissal Calendar
Introduction
The St. Lucie Way
3
4
7
9
Requesting Leave
12
In-Service, Dry Runs, & Call Time pay
14
Initial Parent Contact
13
Safe Driver Plans
Maintaining a Valid CDL
Smoking Policy
Emergency Procedures
Rail Crossings
Bus Assignments
Parking Lot
Seat Belts
Pre-Trip Inspection
Bus Stop Procedures
Reporting Child Abuse
Severe Weather Guidelines
Driving Emergencies
Emergency Evacuations
Evacuation Plan
Seating Chart and Bus Cards
Security / Student Management
Vandalism
Communicating with Kids
Procedures for Referrals and Incident Reports
Incident Reports
Pupil Accident Reports
Bus Accidents
Overcrowded Bus
FEFP Reports
Timesheets / Payroll
Field Trips / Activity Runs
Running out of Fuel
Annual Evaluation
Paraprofessionals Handbook
Supplements
St. Lucie County School Board Policies
Student Management
Loading and Unloading
Passenger Management
Welcome Letter
2
15
17
21
22
31
33
34
35
38
45
47
48
49
51
53
55
58
59
61
64
67
68
69
72
73
75
81
97
99
100
2008-2009
TRANSPORTATION CALENDAR
JUL
30
10
15
13-17
17
30
31
31
11 MO. EMPLOYEES RETURN
STUDENT HOLIDAY
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 9/15 - 9/25)
FEFP SURVEY #2
EARLY DISMISSAL
EARLY DISMISSAL
STUDENT HOLIDAY
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 9/29 - 10/10)
NOV
2
10
11
14
25
25
26
27
28
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS
STUDENT HOLIDAY
HOLIDAY - VETERAN'S DAY
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 10/13 - 10/24)
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 10/27 - 11/7)
EARLY DISMISSAL
HOLIDAY - THANKSGIVING
HOLIDAY - THANKSGIVING
HOLIDAY - THANKSGIVING
DEC
1
5
9
19
19
22-31
STUDENTS RETURN
EARLY DISMISSAL
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 11/10 - 11/21)
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 11/24 - 12/5)
EARLY DISMISSAL
WINTER BREAK
JAN
1
2
5
15
16
19
15
26
30
WINTER BREAK
WINTER BREAK
STUDENTS RETURN
EARLY DISMISSAL
EARLY DISMISSAL
STUDENT HOLIDAY
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 12/08 - 12/19) 10 DAYS
TEACHER WORK DAY
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 1/5 - 1/16) 10 DAYS
FEB
4-8
9-13
13
16
27
27
BUS EVACUATION DRILLS
FEFP SURVEY #3
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 1/20 - 1/30)
8 DAYS
HOLIDAY - PRESIDENT'S DAY
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 2/2 - 2/13) 10 DAYS
EARLY DISMISSAL
MAR
13
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 2/17 - 2/27)
3
9 DAYS
6 DAYS
10 DAYS
9 DAYS
8 DAYS
7 DAYS
9 DAYS
27
30
31
EARLY DISMISSAL
STUDENT HOLIDAY
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 3/2 - 3/13) 10 DAYS
APR
9
9
10-17
20
30
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 3/16 - 3/27)
EARLY DISMISSAL
SPRING BREAK
STUDENTS RETURN
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 3/30 - 4/9)
10 DAYS
MAY
15
22
25
29
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 4/20 - 5/1)
EARLY DISMISSAL
HOLIDAY - MEMORIAL DAY
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 5/4 - 5/15)
10 DAYS
JUNE
8-12
9
10
11
15
18
24
30
FEFP SURVEY #4
EARLY DISMISSAL
STUDENT'S LAST DAY
10 MO. EMPLOYEE LAST DAY
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 5/18 - 5/29)
9 DAYS
10 1/2 MO. EMPLOYEE LAST DAY
11 MO. EMPLOYEE LAST DAY
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 6/1 - 6/10) 8 DAYS
AUG
11
12
13
18
29
29
IN-SERVICE -- 8AM -- LINCOLN PARK ACADEMY
IN-SERVICE
10 MO. EMPLOYEES RETURN
STUDENTS RETURN
EARLY DISMISSAL
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 8/13 - 8/15)
3 DAYS
SEPT
1
8-12
15
19
26
26
29
30
HOLIDAY - LABOR DAY
BUS EVACUATION DRILLS
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 8/18 - 8/29)
10 DAYS
EARLY DISMISSAL
PAYDAY (PAY PERIOD 9/2 - 9/12) 9 DAYS
STUDENT HOLIDAY
STUDENT HOLIDAY
STUDENT HOLIDAY
OCT
9
STUDENT HOLIDAY
4
8 DAYS
10 DAYS
MEMORANDUM
TO:
All Administrators
FROM:
Susan Ranew, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources
DATE:
May 2, 2008
SUBJECT:
Early Dismissal Calendar for Students – 2008-2009 School Year
As part of the negotiated agreement between the St. Lucie County Classroom Teachers Association
and the School Board, early dismissal is provided two hours once each month for teachers to
utilize for record keeping. No meetings or in-service activities will be conducted during this record
keeping time, unless a contract waiver is submitted and approved by the School Board. The
following listed day of each month has been designated as early dismissal for students to provide
record keeping time for teachers.
August 29, 2008
September 19, 2008
October 17, 2008
October 30, 2008
November 25, 2008
December 5, 2008
December 19, 2008
January 15, 2009
January 16, 2009
February 27, 2009
March 27, 2009
April 9, 2009
May 22, 2009
June 10, 2009
c:
\am
Michael Lannon, Superintendent
Vanessa Tillman, President, CTA
5
INTRODUCTION
Our successful transportation operation depends upon the commitment to safety and
excellence by all members of the transportation team. This includes the St. Lucie District
School Board, the Superintendent of Schools, district staff, school-based administrators,
teachers, parents and students. Most importantly, the bus driver and paraprofessional who
continuously interact with students, parents, school officials, fleet maintenance
technicians, security and the motoring public as critical persons in achieving our high
quality of service.
This Handbook has been updated for the 2008- 2009 School year to assist you in your
tremendous task of transporting students safely, effectively and efficiently. The safe
driving and operating procedures provided in this Handbook will assist you in meeting the
many demands of your positions. It is intended to be a convenient reference for you and
will cover many of the daily situations you encounter. Please take the time to review these
reminders.
The school bus is truly an extension of the classroom and a vital part of the St. Lucie
County school system. This Handbook will help guide you in being an outstanding
member of the transportation team and the District team. Use this Handbook wisely.
Read it, know it, and follow its instructions.
Our theme of success this year is Making a Difference. You are expected to model
professional bus drivers and attendants of which we are each individually capable. If you
lack that capability or that desire, you may lack what it takes to be a part of this wonderful
team that is the St Lucie Co. Schools Transportation
6
ZERO TOLERENCE
ABSOLUTELY no cell phone, headset or blue tooth type devices may be used while on your bus.
ABSOULTELY no idling in bus
ramps.
ABSOLUTELY no unofficial business or conversation on the radios.
ABSOLUTELY no racial or ethnic slurs or comments will not be tolerated.
7
THE S A I N T LUCIE W A Y
There Is a St. Lucie Way:
The St. Lucie Way is described in our beliefs, vision and mission. It is the way we do business
every day.
St. Lucie County's Core Business:
The core business of St. Lucie County Schools is to create challenging, engaging and satisfying
work for every student, every day.
The Beliefs of St. Lucie School District:
Beliefs about students:
Students are our foremost concern. Their learning is the central focus of all school and
district activities.
All children can learn more than they currently are learning.
All students have the absolute right to a safe, trusting and drug-free learning environment.
Students are volunteers. Their attendance can be commanded, their attention must be
earned.
Beliefs about governance:
We are a school system supporting common beliefs, vision and mission.
School board members and the superintendent of schools are educational leaders who
promote community support of schools and the vision that supports them.
Principals are the leaders of leaders whose goals are to develop staff, provide resources and
create an atmosphere that ensures optimum student learning.
District administrators and professional support staff are to enhance and promote schoolbased educational opportunities within the commonly held beliefs, vision and mission.
Beliefs about parents and community:
Parents, community members, agencies and the school district must work together to
provide the support needed for student success.
Parents, students and community members must be involved in the ongoing changes and
improvements of the school system.
The school district must work with parents, businesses, the various municipalities, the
greater community and other educational institutes to contribute to the overall well-being
of the county.
Beliefs about quality and accountability:
All personnel, parents and students share the responsibility for student success.
A variety of assessment techniques will be used to evaluate and monitor student progress:
conclusions will be data driven.
Motivating parents, staff and community to work together through the school improvement
process is an essential part of decision making and impacts the overall outcome of a quality
education.
Failure is not an option.
Beliefs about district personnel:
Teachers are leaders whose primary role is to design rigorous and engaging work for
students and to participate in ongoing collaborative staff development in order to monitor,
assess and improve the quality of such work.
Continuous training and leadership development is a critical element in the school
improvement process.
All school board personnel must be advocates for students.
Change is a constant, embraced and welcomed as a part of continuous improvement.
Beliefs about operations:
Relationships are strengthened and perspectives are broadened when all diversity is
embraced (cultural, racial, intellectual, etc.).
Facility needs must be routinely checked ensuring that favorable learning environments
are maintained.
Instruction must drive construction.
Schools must be up-to-date technologically and prepared for new advancements.
Visionary leadership at all levels is essential to continuous improvement.
Flexibility and adaptability are cornerstones of our operational design.
8
The Vision of St. Lucie School District:
The schools of the St. Lucie County School District in partnership with parents and community
will become premier centers of knowledge that are organized around students and the work provided
to them. St. Lucie County School District's name will be synonymous with continuously improving
student achievement and the success of each individual. Our school district's promise is to move
from good to great focusing on our core business, the creation of challenging, engaging and
satisfying work for every student, every day. This is The St. Lucie Way!
The Mission of St. Lucie School District:
The mission of the St. Lucie County School District is to ensure all students graduate from safe
and caring schools, equipped with knowledge, skills and the desire to succeed.
Induction:
New employees must internalize and commit to the St. Lucie Way. Our employees will be expected
to use their talents and skills in ways that ensure our core business is accomplished. What we are
and what we should remain is a talented group of people who share a set of common assumptions
to influence everything we do and every decision we make.
Our Customers:
Students are our primary customers. Their attendance can be commanded but their attention
must be earned. The work provided to every student must be interesting, satisfying and
challenging every day. All employees have important roles ensuring support for teachers who
design quality work and for students who engage in it. All the roles interrelate to create a system
where everyone is focused on students and the work provided to them.
Quality:
The example we set is the maximum we can expect from others. Therefore, everything we do, our
appearance, our approach, our work must convey the importance we place on quality. Our image
of ourselves is critical to our success. Our customers must view us as professionals. Within St.
Lucie County School District, we are professionals who act as family, friends and trusted
colleagues.
Trust:
Trust is the foundation on which relationships are built. We strive to earn the trust of our
students, their families and our colleagues. As colleagues we provide each other with mutual
support and encourage innovation and risk-taking. Failure should not be punitive in nature but
.viewed as an opportunity to learn and improve. An increased level of trust among students,
families and colleagues creates an environment in which student success is fostered and expected.
Commitment:
We are responsive, dependable and
opportunity to improve the quality of
provide support for teachers as they
challenging. We will never compromise
reliable. We come prepared. Everyday is viewed as an
education for our students. We persist in our position to
create work for students that is engaging, satisfying and
on this commitment.
Innovation and Professional Learning:
As professionals we realize the importance of finding new ways to meet the needs of our
customers. We strive to gain knowledge of cutting edge instructional strategies that have proven
results. As people who work in the field of education, we value learning and commit to never being
satisfied with status quo or doing what we do because it is what we have always done. Innovation
is fostered by our curiosity and the need for improvement, therefore; we devote time to learn new
and innovative ways that are aimed at getting better results.
9
Supporting and Nurturing Ourselves:
Each member of the St. Lucie County School District is a valued member of the St. Lucie County
Family. Together "we" are better and stronger than "me." As a member of a family, we respect,
support and encourage each other. Each of these is a part of our family's culture and is
demonstrated in the following ways:






Provisions for recognition and affirmation
Involvement in the decision making process
Recognition that what one does makes difference
Provisions for professional growth
Provisions for affiliation, collegial support and interaction
Communications are supportive of ourselves, our students, their families and our
colleagues
10
Procedures for Requesting Leave
Leave issues are covered in both CWA Contract and School Board Policy.
Bus Drivers and Bus Paraprofessionals are given three (3) days of sick leave on Sept. 15 each
year. They earn one (1) additional day in September, October, November, December, January and
February for a total of nine (9) sick days per year.
An employee may use up to five (5) days of their sick leave as Personal Leave With Pay. If they do
not take all or part of their Personal Leave, the remaining days (out of five total) will remain in their
account as sick days.
ABSENTEEISM
Bus Drivers, Sub Drivers, and Paraprofessionals are expected to be present at work every day
unless they have been pre-approved for planned Personal Leave or if they must be absent due to
illness.
To report an absence due to illness or emergency circumstances:
Telephone Number to Call: South 785-6615 or North 429-6213
Time: Between
5:00* and 5:45am (for morning shift)
and
10am and 11 am (for afternoon shift)
You will be transferred to a "live" area manager on duty that can take your sub information. *If your
shift begins prior to this time, please call in prior to your check in time with as much notice as is
possible.
If you inform the area manager on the first call that you will not be in for the afternoon, you do not
need to call again. Unless you state this, you will need to call between 10:00 am and 11:00am
and inform the area manager that you will not be in for the afternoon. Any calls made after these
times will be subject to the Director's approval for authorized absence. Remember, we need you
here. Please plan ahead for absences.
When you return to work, you are required to complete a Reason for Leave immediately and turn it
in to your supervisor. You will not be reminded about paperwork you are responsible for. If the
Payroll Clerk does not have your proper absence paperwork, she cannot compensate you for that
time.
Excessive absences not previously approved will not be tolerated.
Back to School Telephone Program Instructions
11
Smile as you are talking and it will come through in your voice and your attitude! It Works! No
matter what happens be pleasant and courteous. Remember, parents and students are our
customers. As Mrs. Queen Townsend always says, "Parents give us the very best they have to
offer, their children." These children are the reason for our jobs and our livelihoods. A parent's first
and lasting impression of our schools system may start with you! Our best ambassadors are you,
our drivers and paraprofessionals, and you can set the tone for a great year.
Check the list for the names of several students in the same family because this will cut down on
the number of calls you have to make. Write a note in the margin by the child's name as follows:
WN = Wrong Telephone Number
LM = Left my message for the parent on voice mail TP = Talked with parent
TS = Talked with student
OS = Out of Service
CB = Call Blocked
If you get a busy signal, you must call again.
Make two attempts and note times you called. This is a good-faith effort on your part.
If you are making your calls from your home and do not want your telephone number to show on
the Caller ID system, press *67 and your number will be blocked. If the parent you are calling does
not accept call-blocked calls, please try the call from a telephone at the transportation office. We
will have telephones available.
Script for Parent Phone Calls
Have I reached the home of
?
Student's name
This is
with the St. Lucie Transportation Department.
Your name
I will be driving (or riding with) your child on Bus #
The pick-up time is
to
and the stop is located at
School.
and
.
I am scheduled to drop off at
and
in the afternoon. Please have your
child at the bus 5 minutes before the scheduled time in the morning.
Thank you for your time.
We are looking forward to a safe and happy year with
.
Student's name
If the parent has any questions about the stop location or other issues, please give them
the 340-7120 number and politely explain they need to contact our routing office.
12
Compensation for In-Service, Dry Runs, Cleanup & Parent Calls
 The sign in sheets in the lobby must be signed twice, once in the morning
and once after lunch. These sheets will serve as timesheet verification for
payroll. Have a legible signature.
 You will be paid eight hours for today's in-service meeting.
 You will be paid eight hours for the following: dry run in your assigned bus,
bus clean up, and parent phone calls. ESE drivers and attendants are
permitted to perform house visits in the place of phone calls if preferred.
 Fill out the following employee information sheet, a timesheet, and the
confirmation worksheet after you have completed these tasks. All three
must be filled out for a paycheck to be processed.
 If you have a problem on your route, make the notations on your VIA and turn
them into your Area Manager. She will go through them and pass on the most
urgent.
 Please only report wrong turns, one ways, new medians, construction
detours, etc. Stops for Elementary and Middle School riders have been
moved to a one-third mile walkout. The route is on that particular street to
avoid the "But you come right by my house!"
 Buses will be inspected for cleanliness. Don't claim the time if you don't
make the effort. Cheating will not be tolerated.
 Attendants are eligible for bus cleaning time on a spare bus. Write the bus
number that you cleaned.
 When you call parents and they question the stop, explain they may request a
stop change after Labor Day.
Q: "Do you really expect my child to walk that far (to the stop)?"
A: "Ma'am/Sir, how a child gets to his bus stop is a family decision.
The state says they may walk up to a mile and a half, but we keep it at approximately a half or a
third mile."
13
SCHOOL BOARD OF ST. LUCIE COUNTY
SAFE DRIVER PLAN
Introduction
The School Board of St. Lucie County wishes to ensure that it provides the safest means of
transportation possible for its students and employees, and for this purpose has adopted this Safe Driver
Plan, (SDP). Statistics indicate the School Board can significantly reduce the potential for injuries,
property damage, and lawsuits by maintaining a Safe Driver Plan. The Plan will prevent the hiring of
unqualified applicants and remove an employee from driving a school bus who has attained a poor
driving record showing a pattern of unsafe driving habits, violating safety procedures and rules, or
reflecting a critical incident. Every employee covered by this Plan is expected to establish and maintain
an overall driving record that exemplifies careful driving habits.
Who Is Covered
This Safe Driver Plan covers all employees who operate a District owned/leased vehicle, hereinafter
referred to as a District vehicle, who are required to maintain a Commercial Driver License, including
all employees who drive school buses. The Plan also applies to all applicants for employment in such
positions. The Plan applies to both the driving of the District vehicle as well as any other vehicle
operated outside of the workplace. One facet of this Plan involves the regular monitoring of the driving
record of these employees. Bus Drivers are in safety sensitive positions as described by the Omnibus
Transportation Employee Testing Act, (OTETA), and are held to higher standards as described in this
Plan.
Effective Date
This Safe Driver Plan was approved by the Board July 11, 2000. Any points accumulated on the
Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) as of that date are incorporated into this
Plan.
Applicants for Employment as School Bus Driver
The failure to meet the following criteria and evidence of infractions of the traffic code and driving
violation point totals shall deem an applicant for employment with the District unqualified for hire as a
school bus driver:
1. Minimum of five (5) years of licensed driving experience as proven by DHSMV record.
2. Maximum of ten (10) points accumulated within the last five (5) years, not to exceed four (4)
points in any one (1) year. If applicant has one or more Adjudication Withheld during this time,
the maximum number of points is reduced from 10 to 5.
3. No more than two (2) suspensions of drivers license for any reason within the last three years.
4. No more than two (2) Adjudication Withheld or convictions for unlawful speed within the past
three (3) years.
5. No more than three (3) Adjudication Withheld for any reason within five (5) years.
14
6. An Applicant will not be recommended to drive a school bus if they have been convicted of
reckless driving during the past ten (10) years or careless driving within the past five (5) years.
7. An applicant will not be recommended to drive a school bus if the applicant has ever been
convicted of leaving the scene of an accident, driving under the influence of alcohol or a
controlled substance or driving with an unlawful blood alcohol or breath alcohol level within the
last fifteen (15) years or more than once in a lifetime.
8. An applicant must have a valid driver’s license when applying for a position as a bus driver.
Training Program
Once approved for employment, all employees covered by the Plan shall be instructed in safe driving
techniques during a training program as required by law including annual in-service training.
Remediation
In addition to any disciplinary action that may be implemented in accordance with this Plan, when
management deems it appropriate or necessary, an employee covered by this Plan may be required to
attend remedial training in any school year. Such training may be provided by the District and may
include classroom instruction or behind the wheel training
in those areas management identifies as needing improvement. All training shall be on paid time at the
in-service rate of pay.
Administration and Disciplinary Action
This Safe Driver Plan is based on a point system, whereby points are applied to a variety of
driving, policy or procedural violations. The accumulation of a certain number of points within
a specific time period will result in disciplinary action against an employee. For employees
covered by this Plan, it does not matter whether the points were assigned for violations
involving a District vehicle or the employee’s personal vehicle.
The accumulation of points within the specified time period will result in disciplinary action as indicated
below.
Maximum Number
Time
Of Points
1 point
2 points
3-4 points
5-6 points
7-9 points
10 points
15 points
20 points
Period
1 year
1 year
1 year
1 year
1 year
1 year
2 years
3 years
Assessment
Action
Documented Warning
Written Reprimand
1 day suspension without pay
3 day suspension without pay
10 day suspension without pay
Termination of Employment
Termination of Employment
Termination of Employment
Points assessed under this Plan will be deleted three (3) years following the date the points were
assessed. One point per year will be deducted by qualifying for a Safe Driver Credit through an
accident, incident, and citation free twelve-month period of active duty.
15
Maintenance of Professional License or Certification
Regardless of any other provision of this Safe Driver Plan, any District employee who knowingly
operates a school bus with a suspended or revoked driver’s license or certification shall be subject to
termination of employment.
Administrative and Reporting Responsibilities
It is the responsibility of the employee to report the occurrence of any of the following by the next
scheduled employee workday to the Director of Transportation, (Director), or his/her designee:
1.
Any accident in which the employee was involved as a driver of a motor vehicle, regardless of
the ownership of the vehicle, the location, or if the employee was or was not at fault.
2.
Receipt of any traffic citation, excluding parking violations, regardless of vehicle ownership or
site of the citation. A copy of the citation must be submitted.
3.
Receipt of notification of expiration, suspension or revocation of driver’s license. Notification
must be made in time to for route coverage along with a copy of the notice.
4.
Any and all visible damage to the assigned district vehicle or injury to a passenger, no matter
how minor, must be reported immediately during normal working hours or by the following
workday.
Failure to report any of the above or making a false or misleading report may be grounds for discipline
up to and including termination of employment. A driver may be suspended from driving duties with
pay, pending school board action. If he/she is found guilty or does not contest the charges, he/she will
be immediately assigned points and administrative action(s) shall begin immediately.
It is the responsibility of the driver’s direct supervisor to insure all applicable paper work involving SDP
action be forwarded or returned to the Director or his/her designee within five (5) working days of
receipt.
A driver involved in a single event, but cited for more than one violation will receive SDP points for all
citations received.
All employees have the right to appear before the Safe Driver Review Committee. An employee may
request his/her case be reviewed at the following scheduled committee meeting. This request must be in
writing and will be accommodated one time only per incident.
All employees have the right of appeal as defined, in regard to the findings of the Review Committee.
Disciplinary action will be held until the Appeal Committee’s decision is made.
Safe Driver Review Committee
The Safe Driver Review Committee will be organized to meet monthly as necessary and
perform the following duties and responsibilities:
1. Establish a set schedule for the review of all accidents, incidents, and violations.
2. Determine the preventability of all incident and accidents, whether ticketed or
unticketed, following National Safety Council guidelines.
16
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Notify the Director of findings and recommendations within five (5) days of meeting.
Notify the Director of accumulated points if applicable to disciplinary action.
Make recommendations as to accident trends and prevention.
Have all voting procedures be by written ballot.
Hold all proceedings as confidential.
Review the Safe Driver Plan annually and make recommendations for revision.
Notify the Director of any Driving Record citations that were not reported by the driver or
supervisor.
10. Review written applications for Safe Driver Credits as needed by the Director.
The Safe Driver Review Committee will consist of 10 voting members and one floating seat:
Safety and Training Manager (will serve as chairman)
Fleet Service Manager or designee
One Security Officer
One Risk Management Representative
Two Lead Driver Trainers
Three School Bus Drivers (appointed by the Director every two years)
One Union Representative (appointed by the union each year)
One Open Seat for the driver’s supervisor from their department or a Human Resources
representative, (non voting except in event of a tie)
The employee will be notified within 15 working days whether points will be assigned and of
any potential administrative action. Points assigned will become part of the Safe Driver Plan
employee accumulation.
Point System
The following point assessment is based upon the Florida DHSMV point system. The items
below indicate the types of violations and the points typically associated with them. This list is
neither complete nor inclusive.
ViolationCategories
Points to be Assigned
1. Uncited preventable accidents with damage or injury
2. Crossing private property to avoid traffic containment device
3. Following too close
4. Speeding—15 miles or less over posted limits
5. Careless driving
6. Failing to observe a red light
7. Failing to observe a stop sign
8. Failing to observe a traffic instruction sign
9. Improper lane change
10. Failing to have vehicle under control
11. Driving on wrong side of road
12. Improper turning
13. Failing to yield enter through highway
14. Failing to yield right-of-way
15. Improper backing
16. Improper passing
17. Speeding—16 miles or more over posted limits
17
0-3
1
2
3
5
3
3
3
3
4
3
3
3
3
3
3
4
18. Reckless driving
10
19. Leaving Scene of accident
6
20. School bus driver failing to stop at RR Crossing (unloaded) 8
21. Driving while intoxicated or unlawful blood alcohol content 10
22. Operating without valid Florida driver’s license or with
improper (revoked, suspended, etc.) Florida driver’s license
10
23. Leaving scene of accident ( with injury or property damage) 10
24. Leaving scene of accident (school bus involved)
10
25. School bus driver failing to stop at RR Crossing (loaded)
10
26. Fleeing or attempting to elude police
10
27. Passing school bus whose red lights are flashing
and stop arms are out
10
28. Failing to observe any other established driving law, rule, or regulation. Points to be
established 0 – 10 using the above schedule as a guide to determine the number of points according to
similar severity. This includes failing to report violations as defined by this Plan.
If the district has reason to believe an employee recklessly endangered the lives of students and/or
others, or has violated any other board policies, district procedures or practices, or state/federal rules or
statutes, the District may impose disciplinary action up to and including termination as prescribed by
school board policy. However, if a student is injured due to a defensive action on the part of the school
bus driver in order to avoid an accident, no points will be assessed because of the injury. It is
recognized that students should always be safely seated.
Unticketed Driving and Procedural Infractions
When an employee is involved in a traffic infraction or accident in a district vehicle and no ticket from a
law enforcement agency is issued to any parties involved, and there is property damage in excess of
$150 or bodily injury, the Director of Transportation, or his/her designee, will investigate the accident.
This same procedure will apply in the event of any infraction or violation of department procedure as
listed in the Driver and Attendant Handbook or other department directives, or violation of a board
policy, or a Florida statute or rule as listed in FS K-20 Education Code 1006 and FAC 6A-3
Transportation Administrative Rules.
As part of the investigation, the employee will meet to discuss the violation, infraction or accident and
any documentation within ten (10) working days of the infraction. The employee will be provided
copies of all documentation and copies of any tapes if the meeting is recorded. An employee may be
represented by the Union at such a meeting and, if necessary, at the Safe Driver Review Committee
meeting. Based on the outcome of the meeting, if points are warranted, the driver may be assigned
points. For property damage of a minor nature, the points will be assessed at the Director’s discretion as
follows:
Violation
1.
2.
Points
At-fault accident driving a district vehicle,
involving another vehicle and/or physical
property damage of less than $300, whether
or not students were on board (without citation)
1
At-fault accident driving a district vehicle,
involving another vehicle and/or physical
property damage of more than $300, whether
or not students were on board (without citation)
3
18
The employee will be notified within 15 working days of the review meeting whether or not points will
be assigned. Points assigned above will become part of the Safe Driver Plan employee accumulation.
Appeal of Points Assigned in Accordance with Safe Driver Plan
Appeals must be made in writing to the supervisor within 10 working days of the assignment of points.
Appeals may only be made for those point assignments where there was no citation issued and where
there is reasonable doubt as to whether or not the employee could have avoided the accident. A joint
committee comprised of the following will meet with the employee and his/her Union representative to
review the appeal. The committee shall be comprised of the following:
Director of Transportation or Designee
The supervisor of the employee filing the appeal
Driver Trainer/Safety Manager
Member of the St. Lucie County School Board Security Department
Union Representative selected by the appellant
Two driver representatives selected by the appellant
The Safe Driver Appeal Committee will meet as needed for this purpose. The Transportation Director
will serve as Committee Chair. The Safety Manager shall outline the event and recommendation
reached by the Review Committee. The driver may then present his/her appeal. Questions may be asked
and discussions ensue, however the driver’s previous driving record or employment history may not
enter the process. The Appeal Committee will deal exclusively with reassessing the event being
appealed. Ballots will be in writing. A tie vote shall benefit the driver with no penalty assessed. The
decision of the Appeals Committee will be final.
Annual Notification
Each employee will be required to sign a form annually indicating that he/she has received and read a
copy of the Safe Driver Plan.
19
No Smoking!
All Transportation Employees:
This is a reminder that School Board Policy and Florida
Statutes prohibit smoking on school campus (unless in
designated areas) and on all school buses.
It is up to us to be leaders and to set the example for our
students.
Recent changes in the law will now result in fines if a student
is found smoking on campus or in possession of cigarettes or
other tobacco products.
Thank you for your cooperation.
20
SLCSB TRANSPORTATION
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
SECTION: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Procedure Name: Weapon on Board
Radio Signal: Signal Zero
Author/Issue Date: 8/01/2007
Revision Date:
Driver:
Pull bus over to a SAFE location and secure.
Alert Dispatch and Security. Maintain radio contact.
“This is bus (#) at (location). I have a signal zero.”
Give security description (incident, suspect) and details.
Children on/board? Injuries? Isolate or Evacuate.
Confiscate weapon if possible. Weapon is evidence.
Always turn weapon over to Security or Law Enforcement.
Take roll call: Name, DOB, Phone# and Seat#.
Push Red Emergency Button if radio contact is blocked.
Dispatcher:
Upon notification from driver, immediately clear channel.
Maintain radio contact with driver.
Alert Manager, Director, Risk Management
If children on board and/or injuries, call 911 and school.
Print route detail.
Assist school with parent calls regarding delay.
Open channel and resume regular radio traffic.
Manager:
Respond to scene as soon as possible.
Bring copy of route detail and handheld radio
Maintain radio contact with driver, dispatch and security.
At scene, assist Security and law enforcement as needed.
Assist with student management and provide driver support.
Ensure that Incident Report, seating chart and forms are completed.
Contact Risk Management; forward all relevant forms and photos.
Copy Safety Office, Garage and driver’s manager.
21
SLCSB TRANSPORTATION
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
SECTION: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Procedure Name: Bus Accident
Radio Signal: Signal 4
Author/Issue Date: 8/01/2007
Revision Date:
Driver:
Dispatcher:
Manager:
Check children on/board. Injuries?
Do not move bus unless directed by Law Enforcement or Dispatch.
Evacuate only if eminent danger (fire, smoke, fuel spill etc.)
When prompted, move bus to a SAFE location and secure.
Alert Dispatch and Garage. Maintain radio contact.
“This is bus (#) at (location). I have a signal 4.”
Give Dispatch description (incident, other vehicle) and details.
Take roll call: Name, DOB, and Seat#.
Push Red Emergency Button if radio contact is blocked.
Upon notification from driver, immediately clear channel.
Maintain radio contact with driver.
Alert Manager, Director and Risk Mgmt, Security and Garage.
If children on board and/or injuries, call 911 and school.
Print route detail and Fax to School.
School will make parent calls regarding delay.
Open channel and resume regular radio traffic.
Respond to scene as soon as possible.
Bring copy of route detail, camera and handheld radio
Maintain radio contact with driver, dispatch and security.
At scene, assist Security and law enforcement as needed.
Assist with student management and provide driver support.
Ensure that Incident Report, seating chart and forms are completed.
Address on site parent concerns and needs.
Contact Risk Management; forward all relevant forms and photos.
Copy Safety Office, Garage and driver’s manager.
22
SLCSB TRANSPORTATION
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
SECTION: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Procedure Name: Drugs on Board (Illicit)
Radio Signal: Signal 57
Author/Issue Date: 8/01/2007
Revision Date:
Driver:
Dispatcher:
Manager:
Pull bus over to a SAFE location and secure.
Alert Dispatch and Security. Maintain radio contact.
“This is bus (#) at (location). I have a signal 57.”
Give security description (incident, suspect) and details.
Give# of Children on/board? Drugs ingested? Isolate or Separate.
Confiscate drugs if possible. The drugs are evidence.
Always turn the drugs over to Security or Law Enforcement.
Take roll call: Name, DOB, Phone# and Seat#.
Push Red Emergency Button if radio contact is blocked.
Upon notification from driver, immediately clear channel.
Maintain radio contact with driver.
Alert Manager, Director, Risk Management.
If children are ill, call 911 and school.
Print route detail.
Open channel and resume regular radio traffic.
Respond to scene as soon as possible.
Bring copy of route detail and handheld radio
Maintain radio contact with driver, dispatch and security.
At scene, assist Security and law enforcement as needed.
Assist with student management and provide driver support.
Ensure that Incident Report, seating chart and forms are completed.
Contact Risk Management; forward all relevant forms and photos.
Copy Safety Office, Garage and driver’s manager.
23
SLCSB TRANSPORTATION
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
SECTION: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Procedure Name: Fight on Bus, Assault (Of a Serious Level)
Radio Signal: Signal 36
Author/Issue Date: 8/01/2007
Revision Date:
Driver:
Dispatcher:
Manager:
Pull bus over to a SAFE location and secure.
Alert Dispatch and Security. Maintain radio contact.
“This is bus (#) at (location). I have a signal 36 ..Fight on Bus.”
Give security description (incident, students) and details.
Try to end fight, separate fighters and move others from harm’s way.
Count # of Children on/board? Injuries?
Take roll call: Name, DOB, Phone# and Seat#.
Push Red Emergency Button if radio contact is blocked.
Upon notification from driver, immediately clear channel.
Maintain radio contact with driver.
Alert Manager, Director, Risk Management
If students are injured, call 911 and school.
Print route detail.
Assist school with parent calls regarding delay, if needed.
Open channel and resume regular radio traffic.
Respond to scene as soon as possible.
Bring copy of route detail and handheld radio.
Maintain radio contact with driver, dispatch and security.
At scene, assist Security and law enforcement as needed.
Assist with student management and provide driver support.
Ensure that Incident Report, seating chart and forms are completed.
Contact Risk Management; forward all relevant forms and photos.
Copy Safety Office, Garage and driver’s manager.
24
SLCSB TRANSPORTATION
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
SECTION: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Procedure Name: Fire in Area. Roads Blocked in Drop Zone.
Radio Signal: Signal 16
Author/Issue Date: 8/01/2007
Revision Date:
Driver:
Dispatcher:
Manager:
Move bus to a SAFE location and secure.
Follow Law Enforcement directives if officers are on the scene.
Alert Dispatch and Security. Maintain radio contact.
“This is bus (#) at (location). I have a signal 16.”
Give Dispatch details and inaccessible stop locations.
Dispatch will divert all affected buses to a designated school site.
Take roll call: Name and Phone #s.
Complete list before releasing students to drop school staff.
Contact Dispatch for further instructions.
Push Red Emergency Button if radio contact is blocked.
Upon notification from driver, immediately clear channel.
Maintain radio contact with driver.
Alert Managers, Directors, Security, Safety Office and 911.
Contact any schools nearby that may be able to assist.
Alert all buses and give instructions. Repeat.. Repeat.. Repeat.
Print detail, mark stops affected. Fax to school(for parent calls)
Open channel and resume regular radio traffic.
Assist Dispatch in locating a Drop Site.
Respond to Drop School as soon as possible.
Oversee arrivals, student mgmt, lists, parent calls and pickups.
Use UDs and Drivers for additional manpower.
Address on site parent concerns and needs.
Document and ID checks!
Maintain radio contact with drivers, dispatch and security.
Assist with student management and provide school staff support.
25
SLCSB TRANSPORTATION
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
SECTION: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Procedure Name: Missing Student
Radio Signal: Signal 8
Author/Issue Date: 8/01/2007
Revision Date:
Driver:
Dispatcher:
Manager:
Pull bus over to a SAFE location and secure.
Double check bus, row by row.
Alert Dispatch and Security. Maintain radio contact.
“This is bus (#) at (location). I have a signal 8.”
Give security description of student and details.
Ask students on/board if they saw this student ride or at school.
Push Red Emergency Button if radio contact is blocked.
Upon notification from driver, immediately clear channel.
Maintain radio contact with driver.
All/Call bus check for all buses servicing that school.
Alert Manager, Director, School and Security, (911)
Collect emergency contact info on student.
Print route detail and fax to school.
School will make calls to Q other riders, “did this student ride?”
Open channel and resume regular radio traffic.
Respond to Dispatch as soon as possible.
Oversee operations to locate student.
Maintain radio contact with driver, and security.
Assist Security and law enforcement as needed.
Contact Risk Mgmt.
Ensure that Incident Report, seating chart and forms are completed.
Copy driver’s manager.
26
SLCSB TRANSPORTATION
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
SECTION: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Procedure Name: Sexual Assault, Sexual Acts
Radio Signal: Signal 43
Author/Issue Date: 8/01/2007
Revision Date:
Driver:
Dispatcher:
Manager:
Pull bus over to a SAFE location and secure.
Alert Dispatch and Security. Maintain radio contact.
“This is bus (#) at (location). I have a signal 43.”
Give security description (incident, students) and details.
Try to stop activity, separate students involved.
Check for injuries.
Maintain good student management.
Assist Security as needed.
Push Red Emergency Button if radio contact is blocked.
Upon notification from driver, immediately clear channel.
Maintain radio contact with driver.
Alert Manager, Director and maintain contact with Security
If students are injured, call 911 and school.
Print route detail. If needed, fax to school.
Copy manager if needed.
Open channel and resume regular radio traffic.
Respond to scene if needed (or)
Maintain radio contact with driver, dispatch and security.
Assist Security and law enforcement as needed.
Ensure that Incident Report, seating chart and forms are completed.
Contact Risk Management; forward all relevant forms.
Copy driver’s manager.
27
SLCSB TRANSPORTATION
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
SECTION: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Procedure Name: Suspicious Vehicle/Person (at or near Bus Stop).
Radio Signal: Signal 13/13P
Author/Issue Date: 8/01/2007
Revision Date:
Driver:
Dispatcher:
Manager:
Pull bus over to a SAFE location and secure.
Alert Dispatch and Security. Maintain radio contact.
“This is bus (#) at (location). “I have a signal 13 (or) 13P.”
Give security description (vehicle, person) and details.
Do not allow students to exit bus.
Do not leave any students at stop.
Dispatch may direct you to take students closer to home.
Push Red Emergency Button if radio contact is blocked.
Upon notification from driver, immediately clear channel.
Maintain radio contact with driver.
Alert Manager, Director, 911.
Advise driver to secure all students.
Print route detail.
Open channel and resume regular radio traffic.
Respond to Dispatch as soon as possible.
Bring copy of route detail and handheld radio.
Maintain radio contact with driver and security.
Assist Security and law enforcement as needed.
Ensure that Incident Report, seating chart and forms are completed.
28
SLCSB TRANSPORTATION
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
SECTION: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Procedure Name: Code RED at Destination School
Radio Signal: Code RED
Author/Issue Date: 7/16/2008
Revision Date: 7/28/2008
Driver:
Dispatcher:
Manager:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
If approaching school, do not enter ramp.
If entering ramp, leave immediately.
Move bus to a SAFE location away from school and secure.
Keep all students on board.
Follow Law Enforcement directives if officers are on the scene.
Maintain radio contact with dispatch and security.
“This is bus (#) at (school). School is under a Code Red.”
Give Dispatch details and await instructions.
If all clear is given, resume normal delivery. If not,
Dispatch will divert all affected buses to a designated school site.
Take roll call: Name and Phone #s.
Complete list before releasing students to drop school staff.
Stand-by for further instructions from Dispatch.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Upon notification from driver, immediately clear channel.
Maintain radio contact with driver.
Alert Managers, Director, Security, Safety Office and 911.
Contact sister school and establish alternate destination.
If all clear is given, resume normal delivery. If not,
Alert all buses servicing site and give instructions. Repeat.. Repeat.
Open channel and resume regular radio traffic.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Assist Dispatch in arranging alternate destination.
If all clear is given, resume normal delivery. If not,
Respond to sister school as soon as possible.
Oversee arrivals, student mgmt, lists, parent calls and pickups.
Use office staff and drivers for additional manpower.
Address on site parent concerns and needs.
Document and ID checks!
Maintain radio contact with drivers, dispatch and security.
Assist with student management and provide school staff support.
29
PROCEDURES FOR BUS DRIVERS
AT RAILROAD CROSSINGS
With almost 225,000 railroad crossings in the United States, the school bus driver must be fully alert
when approaching railroad tracks. The main reasons for train-motor vehicle accidents identified by
the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board are:
There are fewer trains than there used to be, so drivers are less alert.
Radios and other noise from students or the bus distract drivers and drown out train horns.
Freight trains don't run on schedule.
Buses and trains travel at high speeds.
Buses accelerate slowly. I t takes about ten seconds to get across the average railroad track.
By blocking crossings for unreasonable amounts of time, carrying out switching operations during
peak traffic hours and causing flashers to operate long before the train appears, the railroad
lines have contributed to negative driver attitude toward crossing warnings.
General
Before crossing any railroad tracks, the bus driver must bring his/her bus to a complete stop
not less than 15 ft or more than 50 feet from the rail nearest the front of the bus.
When stopping, drivers shall observe traffic and reduce speed, far enough in advance so as
to minimize the likelihood that other motorists will rear-end the bus. I f the district policy
requires the use of 4-way hazard flashers as the bus approached, the track, their use should
be helpful in communicating the fact that the bus will be stopping.
When stopped, the driver shall shift into neutral, apply parking break, keep foot on service
brake, fully open the service door, driver window, and listen and look in both directions along
the tracks for approaching trains. For improved vision and hearing, the driver's window shall
be opened and all noisy equipment and radios (two-way and AM/FM if equipped) should be
shut off, and students shall be instructed to be quiet until the bus has cleared the crossing.
The service door shall be closed before proceeding across the tracks.
Drivers shall not shift gears or stop when the bus is in any way on or crossing the tracks.
Always ensure that there is sufficient space on the far side of the track for the bus to safely
stop without any portion of the bus being on the track. Anytime the route is designed such
that the railroad track is immediately preceding an intersection, the driver must be certain
that when the bus starts across the track, it can proceed without the need to stop. I f this
situation occurs and the bus needs to make a turn, the driver should check with the route
manager to see if the route can be redesigned to eliminate this situation.
When a train passes the crossing, no driver shall drive onto the tracks until the train has
sufficiently cleared the crossing so the driver is certain that no train, hidden from view by the
first train, is approaching on an adjacent track.
Crossings Controlled by Railroad Signals Only
The driver of a school bus should look and listen at every railroad track at which there are in
30
operation flashing red lights and/or bells and shall not proceed across such tracks unless
directed by a law enforcement officer.
If switching operations, or stopped trains, delay the use of the crossing unnecessarily for
frequent or extended periods of time, a report should be made to the Transportation
Supervisor who should notify the railroad company.
Crossings Controlled by Crossing Gate or Barrier
No driver shall drive his bus through, around or under any crossing gate or barrier at a railroad
crossing while such gate or barrier is closed or being opened or closed.
The driver must never interpret a lack of movement as an indication that the device is either
in or out of order, but must always assume the crossing is dangerous, and must not cross
tracks until he/she has conclusively ascertained that no train is coming.
Traffic Control Signal At Crossing
No stop need be made at any crossing where a police officer directs traffic to proceed.
Weather Conditions
Before crossing tracks during bad weather, the driver must be sure that the crossing can be
made safely. Any presence of flares (in addition to warning signals or devices positioned at a
railroad crossing) must be taken as an additional warning of danger.
Behavior of Passengers
When a bus stops at any railroad track, all passengers must be silent until crossing
is completed.
Driver Responsibility
Ultimate responsibility is always with the school bus drivers themselves.
Approximately four out of ten grade crossing accidents happen at crossings
protected by flashing lights and/or gates.
DO NOT TAKE A CHANCE!
31
DUDE, WHERE'S MY BUS?
We wanted to clarify the confusion about bus assignments. Drivers and
attendants bid on routes. Those routes are assigned buses to run them. Just
as the route may be changed or adjusted, the bus may be changed or
adjusted. There is no guarantee that a particular bus will always be available
to run a particular route. Buses come off the road for inspections and
repairs. Buses are moved to other routes to cover a child's medical need.
Sometimes air conditioned buses are used for long field trips. This is
because the buses are School District property and will be maintained and
utilized as the School District best sees fit.
“ B U T I HAVE A DOCTOR'S NOTE!!!”
If you have a physical problem that is work related, we will attempt to
accommodate your special needs as quickly as we can. There is no
guaranteed time limit; it may happen next week, it may happen next year.
However, the Bus Driver Job Description states under Qualifications,
"Physical capability to safely operate the type and size of vehicle assigned."
This means it is a job requirement to be able to drive and operate the school
bus your Dispatcher has told you to take.
NO FITS, NO TANTRUMS, NO WALKING OFF YOUR DUTY
POST. THERE IS NO GUARANTEE OF PARTICULAR BUS
ASSIGNMENTS.
If you do choose to abandon your duty over the bus assigned, the matter will
be duly dealt with by traditional progressive discipline. If anyone throws a
temper tantrum, uses vile profanity, or acts in a violent, hostile manner, then
expect the discipline to run straight from suspension to termination. If you
are not capable of physically performing your described duty, it may be time
to consider a career change. Employee's special needs will not be allowed to
override our mission.
32
PARKING LOT PROCEDURES
GO FORWARD NOT BACKWARDS
GO AROUND NOT THROUGH
WATCH YOUR MIRRORS
WATCH OUT FOR YOUR MIRRORS
ENTER AND EXIT THROUGH THE PROPER GATES
BE PATIENT
DO NOT BLOCK FRONT LOUNGE DOOR
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO PASS
PARK IN YOUR ASSIGNED SPOT
PARK IN YOUR ASSIGNED COMPOUND
DO NOT BLOCK BAY DOORS OR DUMPSTERS WITH BUSES OR
PERSONAL VEHICLES
 DO NOT PARK PERSONAL VEHICLES IN THE BUS
PARKING AREA.











33
Search Statutes:
2007
316.6145
Search
The 2007 Florida Statutes
Title XXIII
Chapter 316
View Entire
MOTOR
STATE UNIFORM TRAFFIC
Chapter
VEHICLES
CONTROL
316.6145 School buses; safety belts or other restraint systems required.-(1)(a) Each school bus that is purchased new after December 31, 2000, and used to transport
students in grades pre-K through 12 must be equipped with safety belts or with any other
restraint system approved by the Federal Government in a number sufficient to allow each
student who is being transported to use a separate safety belt or restraint system. These
safety belts must meet the standards required under s. 316.614. A school bus that was
purchased prior to December 31, 2000, is not required to be equipped with safety belts.
(b) As used in this section, "school bus" means a school bus that is owned, leased, operated,
or contracted by a school district.
(2) Each passenger on a school bus that is equipped with safety belts or restraint system shall
wear a properly adjusted and fastened safety belt at all times while the bus is in operation.
The state, the county, a school district, school bus operator under contract with a school
district, or an agent or employee of a school district or operator, including a teacher or
volunteer serving as a chaperone, is not liable in an action for personal injury by a school bus
passenger solely because the injured party was not wearing a safety belt.
(3) The state, the county, a school district, school bus operator under contract with a school
district, or an agent or employee of a school district or operator, including a teacher or
volunteer serving as a chaperone, is not liable in an action for personal injury by a school bus
passenger for an injury caused solely by another passenger's use or nonuse of a safety belt or
restraint system in a dangerous or unsafe manner.
(4) In implementing the provisions of this section, each school district must prioritize the
allocation of buses equipped with safety belts or restraint system to ensure that elementary
schools within the district receive first priority. A school district may enter into agreements to
provide transportation pursuant to this section only if the point of origin or termination of the
trip is within the district's boundaries.
(5) The provisions of this section shall not apply to vehicles as defined in s. 1006.25(1)(b).
History.--s. 3, ch. 99-316; s. 958, ch. 2002-387; s. 2, ch. 2003-90.
Seatbelt
34
Procedures
The pre-trip inspection has been changed to include
seatbelts, if so equipped. They should be laying out flat
on the benches. Check them for any damage. If
damaged, write it up on a DRR (Driver Repair Request)
Form. Then also indicated the issue on your pre-trip
form until the repair is completed. They must be usable
and accessible. If they are knotted or tied around bench legs, it is y
our responsibility to unknot/untie them. If they are frayed or
damaged, write up a Driver's Request for Repair and notate it on your
Pre-trip Inspection Sheet.
Simply announce or tell the children to fasten their seatbelts as
you are departing your stop or school. If a child asks for
assistance in hooking their seatbelt, give it. Unless it is
specifically listed on your route sheet or an ESE student’s IEP,
do not insist their seatbelts be connected, do not police the fastening
of belts. Some parents may insist they not wear the belts.
You cannot be held liable if a child is injured due to wearing or
not wearing the seatbelt. Your only liability is if the belts are not
usable or accessible and have not been reported. All you are
doing is reminding them to fasten their lap belts. However, all
children under 4 must wear them by state law.
35
36
PRE-TRIP INSPECTION
APPROACH BUS
1.
Check for leaks - general body condition; check to see if bus sit straight, not
leaning to one side.
ENTER BUS
1.
2.
Check steps and had rail; check service door, driver's seat, seat belt.
Unlock emergency equipment door; check first aid kit, fire extinguisher and reflect
triangles.
START ENGINE
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
BRAKE CHECK - pump braked down t o check - emergency brake, park brake,
service brake.
Check mirrors, hood condition, windshield (for cracks, dirt, and damage), wipers
and washers.
CHECK GAUGES - oil, temperature, fuel, air pressure voltage.
Turn on head lights.
Check steering wheel for play.
Check horn.
CHECK PANEL - heater, defroster, master switch, fan (on low), switch, strobe
switch, amber pupil lights, dome light, left turn signal, interior lights.
SHIFT BUS INTO REVERSE - check amber pupil light, defroster, heater, interior
lights, seat backs, rear heater.
Open emergency windows and roof hatches - make sure opens freely, buzzer sounds. Be sure to turn knob to lock/closed.
Open rear door - make sure door opens freely, check door buzzer, back up lights,
turn signal, amber pupil lights, tail lights, and listen for beeper.
CLOSE DOOR - check seat bottoms and seat belts untie and unknot any belts as
needed.
PUT BUS BACK IN NEUTRAL - turn on right turn signal, turn on heater,
defroster, fan (high speed), and put pupil red lights on.
Check front red pupil lights, defrosters, stop arms out and operating
properly, emergency front hatch, heater, rear hatch, strobe.
Open door - check right turn signals, red pupil lights.
OPEN DOOR
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Walk back to front - turn off panel, except for stop arm lights and strobe.
Step outside of bus - check step light, hood latch, west coast mirrors (for
stability, rust, corrosion, securely attached to hold), front tire (thread
depth, inflation, cuts, bubbles or visible damage), check rim (bent,
cracked or welded), lug nuts (rust or shiny), hub leaks, spring leaves
shocks.
Check cross over mirrors - loose brackets, stability, and clearance. Check
red pupil lights, head lights (on low beam then high), check for leaks under
bus, cross over mirror - stability.
Check left front tire - check for bubbles, cuts, visible damage, inflation,
check rim (no welding, cracks or dents), check lug nuts (rust or shinny),
check hub for leaks, spring leaves, check shocks for leaks.
Check west coast mirror, hood latch, stop arm for leaks, are lights
37
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
functioning properly, check battery door (closes tight), batteries are
connected and not corroded.
Check reflectors, clearance lamps, check drive train, exhaust system
(broken, disconnected), check rear tires (bubbles, visible damage, thread
depth, inflation), check axle for leaks, lug nuts (rust or shiny), rim (bent,
no welding, no cracks or dents).
Check rear of bus - check for objects between rear tires, exhaust pipe for
looseness and blockage, check clearance lamps and reflectors.
Open rear door - does it open freely, check hinges and strap, rubber seal
around door.
Check right rear tires - check for cuts, bubbles, inflation, visible damage,
thread depth, check axle for leaks, lugs (rust or shinny, rims (no welding,
cracks or dents).
Check reflectors, clearance lamps, body condition, gas cap in place and no
fuel leak underneath.
RE-ENTER BUS
AIR BRAKE TEST
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
BRAKE CHECK - pump braked down t o check - emergency brake, park brake,
service brake.
TEST AIR LEAKAGE RATE: With the air system fully charged, gauge
should be showing approximately 125 psi. RELEASE THE PARKING
BRAKE and time the air pressure drop (or loss). The loss rate should be no
more than 2 psi per minute. SINGLE VEHICLE - not less than 2 psi per
minute.
THEN APPLY FOOT PRESSURE to service brakes. After the initial drop
(which you do not count), the air loss should not exceed 3 psi per minute.
TEST PARKING BRAKE: Start engine, test brake at 120-125 psi by putting
bus in drive and trying to move the bus. Also try putting bus in reverse and
moving.
CHECK SERVICE BRAKE: Release parking brake; put in drive and move
forward and apply service brake to stop. Do this a couple of times.
EMERGENCY BRAKE TEST: Leave key in "ON" position. Pump service break until low air
buzzer and warning light comes on. (This should happen at about 60 psi or less) Continue
pumping until brake control knob pops out (This should happen at 40 psi or less) indicating
that the spring breaks have applied. Restart engine so air pressure will build back up.
Fill out Pre Trip check sheet, fasten seat belt, say a prayer and begin your run.
38
SUB DRIVERS AND ATTENDANTS
Date:
39
School Bus Drivers F i v e - M i n u t e
Daily Walk-Around and Inside Safety
Check
OUTSIDE
INSIDE SAFETY CHECK
Am m ete r (Ge n e rato r/Alt e rnat o r)
W ate r Tem p e rat u re G a ug e
W in dsh i el d W ip ers
A ll W a rn in g L ig hts
B rak e P ed a l a n d B rak e W arn i n g L i g h t
Cl utc h P e d al
G e a r S hi ft L e ve r
S e rvic e Doo r Co nt rol
Ne u tra l S af et y S wi tch
F u el G a ug e
P a rki n g B rake
V ac uum or Ai r P ress u re G au g e
De f ros te r
W in dsh i el d W ash e r
He a d li g hts
H a z a r d W a r n i n g F las h e r
St o p A rm Co nt rol
St e e ri n g W he el
Di rect io n al Si g na ls
Ho rn But to n
O il P ress u re Ga u g e
Dri ve r's Se at a n d Mirro rs
W in dsh i el d
S id e Gl ass
F i re E xt i n g u i s h e r
F i rst A id Kit
F us es a nd Em erg e nc y
E q ui pm e nt
Em ergency Door Buzzer
Cl e a n B us
I nt e ri o r Li g hts
School Buses should be checked before placing bus in service, or following
the day's r un. All faulty or im properly functioning equipm ent should be
reported i n writing, to proper authorities so that m aintenance persons are
notif ied pr om ptl y and the condition can be r e p a i r e d im m ediatel y if
necessary.
40
41
42
Routes and Stops
St. Lucie County School Board Policy 6.31 requires the School Board to approve all routes and
stop locations. It states a "deviation in a school bus route may be made by the Transportation
Department when necessary." If a driver has a safety or other concern about their route, the
driver must see their area manager or route specialist, (in an emergency, call dispatch), and
request a change. No change may be made by a driver unless there is an error on the route.
An example of an error is a direction to turn left when road construction prevents a left turn. An
example of an emergency is construction or stop is flooded.
The policy also requires each bus driver to maintain a copy of the routes and stops on his or
her bus.
Board Policy 6.34, Responsibilities of Bus Driver, states the driver is required "to permit a
student to leave the bus only at their assigned stop, except upon written authorization of the
school principal or other district designee."
Students may only ride on ONE BUS per day. Students going to day care or other afterschool locations will be required to ride the same bus in the morning and afternoon.
If a student comes to the bus and -they are not assigned to ride, please allow them to board
your bus and inform Dispatch. Do not leave a child, authorized rider or not, at a stop.
Inform the parent if they are at the bus stop that they need to contact the Transportation
Department to obtain transport information and to enroll their child on the correct bus.
If they continue to come to the bus stop and are not on your route sheet, inform your Area Manager and
Router so that we can assist in insuring parents understand and take appropriate action.
43
BUS STOP PROCEDURES
Do not leave pre-k, kindergarten, first or second grade children at
unattended stops.
Avoid stops on private property or inside of gated communities
unless routed and pre-approved.
Do not make unauthorized stops. Even in the event of adverse
weather or traffic conditions, always advise Dispatch if you
believe it necessary for safety or time concerns that you must go
off route.
At ESE stops, the Attendant is expected to get off the bus to
greet and assist the student when loading or unloading.
Notify Manager if you believe a stop is dangerous, if no one is at
stop after 10 consecutive days your Manager and Router may
delete the stop.
Avoid stops where there are turn lanes or multiple lanes if at all
possible. The fewer the lanes the fewer the chances of someone
running your reds. Any stops established in the area of a turn
lane, stop would be made either before or after the turn lane.
Avoid stops directly in front of apartment complex or gated community
entrances.
Turn on your student lights at least 200 feet before the stop.
Wait for your riders to be seated before proceeding.
Report suspicious or dangerous activity seen at bus stops.
Students may only disembark at their assigned stops. The only
exception is with signed authorization.
Wait for your students to completely cross the road before
cutting off reds and proceeding.
Do not instruct students to be on the door side prior to your arrival. They
should wait for your Red Student Lights to be activated and your instruction
before crossing.
44
TO:
SLCSD
Fax: 462-3372
Attu: Sgt Dietrich
PSLPD
Fax: 344-4106
Attu: Sgt Beck
FPPD
Fax: 461-0677
Ann: Sgt Zenovic
FROM: St Lucie County School Board Transportation Department
Dispatch S: 785-6615/6618
N: 429-6213
Date of Incident:
Bus #:
Fax 785-6694
Time of Occurrence:
Reported by:
Violation Type:
Location of Incident:
Description of Vehicle:
Tag Number
Description of Driver
Repeat Violation:
First Violation:
Comments:
45
Safety Office 340-7138
REPORTING OF ABUSE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF
CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
OCTOBER 9, 2006
The Purpose of this memorandum is to inform you of changes made in the past
legislative session regarding the reporting of suspected or known child abuse by public
school employees. You may recall in the past, suspected instances of child abuse by
public school employees were only reported to your School Resource Officer. This
past legislative session has changed those procedures and requirements.
House Bill 7173, passed in the2006 Legislative Session now requires public school
employees to report all known or suspected child abuse by employees to the
Department of Children and Families (DCF) for investigation. Abuse should be
immediately reported by calling the Department of Children and Families Abuse
Hotline at 1-800-96-ABUSE or 1-800-962-2873.
Upon receipt of a call to the DCF Hotline regarding an allegation of abuse by a public
school employee DCF will notify the appropriate agency. When the complaint is in
response to a certified individual, DCF will also notify the Bureau of Professional
Practices Services. DCF will notify the school principal of the findings of the
investigation. In addition, the principal should continue to notify their School
Resource Officer of the suspected abuses immediately upon detection. School district
employees are not to conduct their own preliminary investigation; this should be left
up to DCF and your School Resource Officer.
Principals should also continue to notify the Personnel Department after calling DCF
and notification to their School Resource Officer. Once a determination is made of
probable cause by DCF and/or your School Resource Officer, the Personnel
Department will make a decision whether to place the individual on temporary duty
assignment at the district office pending a fact finding.
These changes are effective immediately. Please share these new requirements with
all your staff so they may have full knowledge of the expectations for reporting all
instances of known or suspected abuse by public school employees. Listed below is a
listing of procedures to follow when anyone becomes aware of suspected abuse by a
public school employee.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Immediately call the Department of Children and Families Abuse Hotline at
1-800-96-ABUSE or 1-800-962-2873.
Immediately notify your School Resource Officer.
Immediately notify the Personnel Department.
Stay in contact with the Personnel Administrator to make a determination
whether to place the individual on temporary duty assignment at the district
office pending a fact finding.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact Barbara Slaga or Sue
Ranew.
46
Severe Weather Guidelines
Drivers may be faced with heavy fog, severe thunderstorms, and
possibly tornadoes. Geographic location of the bus when an event
occurs may prevent going to a school facility for protection. Each
driver will become familiar with their route and any locations that
might provide a safe haven for the driver and students, including
large public buildings, churches or other permanent structures.
Avoid stopping in the vicinity of trees, telephone poles or other
potential hazards if at all possible. If you must stop, shut down the
engine and leave your flashers on. Instruct all students to get as low
in their seats as possible and cover all body parts to protect against
broken glass and flying debris. Prior to shutting down the engine,
notify Dispatch or Security of your exact location and confirm they
received your transmission. Once the conditions pass, notify
dispatch immediately of your status.
In the event of tornado, pull the bus laterally as close as possible to
a building. The children and the driver should be on the floor with as
many under the seats as possible.
If there is a downed line, back away if possible. If you are already on it or
entangled in it, drive through it even pulling it down if necessary. Do not
attempt to evacuate the bus. Do not attempt to determine the type of wire.
Treat every line as live and electrical.
DRIVING EMERGENCIES
47
RECOVERING FROM A SKID
Avoid braking.
Steer in the direction in which the rear-end of the vehicle is skidding.
DRIVING ON SNOWIICE
Drive at reduced speed.
Make no sudden changes in speed or direction.
In starting, for optimum traction, accelerate gradually.
BLINDING LIGHTS
Dim lights, even if other driver does not dim his lights.
Look at right edge of road. Slow down.
Pull to the right in order to give other driver room.
LIGHTS FAIL
Try other lights, high or low beam, turn signals, parking lights or brake lights.
Slow down.
ACCELERATOR PEDAL STICKS
Shirt to neutral.
Pump accelerator pedal, with several sharp jabs to release.
Gradually release accelerator pedal.
Reduce speed to 20 MPH or less before pulling off onto shoulder.
Drive vehicle completely off the road.
BRAKES FAIL
Pull off highway.
Turn off ignition.
Take foot of accelerator pedal.
Shift to lower gear.
Pump brake pedal repeatedly if bus has hydraulic brakes. With air brakes, if the low
pressure warning comes on, stop and safely park your vehicle as soon as possible.
Once bus is secured, turn of ignition.
Engage parking brake.
RUNNING OFF PAVEMENT
Take foot off accelerator pedal.
Grip steering wheel with both hands.
Resist urge to return to road immediately.
Continue slowing down until stopped.
When safe re-enter traffic.
TIRE BLOWS OUT
Keep firm grip on steering wheel.
Keep wheels as straight as possible.
Look for something to orient you.
Pull off road and stop.
FLOODING OF CARBURETOR
Hold accelerator pedal against floor - do not pump pedal.
Engage starter for 20-30 seconds, repeat if necessary.
48
STALLING ON RAILROAD TRACKS
Direct students to evacuate vehicle immediately.
If there is not an approaching train, walk away from bus at a 90 degree angle to the track.
If there is a train approaching the crossing, walk away from the bus at a 45 degree angle
toward the train.
ANIMAL ON ROAD
Avoid hitting the animal only if you can safely do so by carefully braking and steering but do
not swerve so drastically as to lose control.
If you do hit an animal, call in to dispatch and give them the specific location.
Complete an incident report after you complete your route.
DO NOT STOP if you have children on board.
SUBMERGED VEHICLE
Escape through open window, before water reaches window level if possible.
If vehicle sinks rapidly, move to rear of passenger compartment to breathe trapped air while
planning escape.
Open side window or knock out windshield or back windows which are encased in black
rubber. Drivers should make students aware of these features when training them for
evacuation drills.
Open door when water pressure is equalized.
DEEP RUTS and/or HOLE IN ROAD
Reduce speed.
Try to avoid them.
Before wheel drops in rut/hole, let up brakes so wheels will turn.
Maintain firm grip of steering wheel.
HOOD FLIES UP
Look between the hood and dashboard.
Pull off road as soon as possible.
STEERING FAILURE
Hard steering, pull off road and check for flat or low tire or broken power steering belt.
Complete failure, apply brakes moderately to prevent skidding.
VEHICLE CATCHES FIRE
Evacuate bus.
Utilize fire extinguisher, if safe to do so
WHEN AN ACCIDENT IS IMMINENT
Steer away until accident is unavoidable.
PHYSICAL EMERGENCIES AFFECTING THE DRIVER
Dirt in eye, violent coughing or sneezing attack - signal, slow down and stop until condition
is corrected.
DROPPED ARTICLES
Do not try to retrieve anything from floor of bus while moving.
Stop, then pick up and dispose of dropped items.
49
EMERGENCY EVACUATION
PROCEDURES
Purpose
With the necessity to transport students, there is a pressing need to instruct pupils in how
to evacuate a school bus. In the event of an emergency, to avoid panic it is important that
students be familiar with the procedure for safely leaving the school bus. Rule 6A-3.017,
,FAC, requires that the school principal in cooperation with the bus driver and
transportation department, conduct a minimum of two (2) emergency evacuation drills,
each school year, for all students riding school buses. Documentation of evacuation drills
must be maintained by the school.
Procedure
a) School bus evacuation drills are required by law as part of the school program.
b) All school bus evacuation drills should be held on school grounds under the
supervision of the school principal or their designee.
i) Rule 6A-3.017(1)(d)l.c. FAC, requires the director or supervisor of
transportation to confer with each school principal regarding scheduling,
conduction and documenting school bus evacuation drills.
ii) Rule 6A-3.017(1)(d)2.d., FAC, requires the principals or other designated
school staff to direct school bus emergency evacuation drills on each bus
serving the school during the first six weeks of each semester, and to maintain
documentation for all students.
iii) Rule 6A-3.017(1)(d)3.n., FAC, requires school bus drivers to participate in
emergency evacuation drills at least once each school semester under the
direction of the school principal or the principal's designee.
c) Upon arrival at school the driver should proceed to the evacuation area, turn off the
engine and remain in the bus.
i) The bus driver and the principal or their designee should discuss school bus
evacuations with all riders.
ii) When discussing evacuation drills with pupils, the importance of an orderly
evacuation should be emphasized. The main objective of an evacuation drill is
to acquaint riders with the use of the rear exit door and other available
emergency exits, such as side emergency door, push out window, or roof
hatches (as equipped).
iii) Emphasize the importance of drills.
iv) Discuss the fact that drills will be held in a safe and orderly manner.
v) Explain the local district school evacuation program.
vi) Inform the students to leave personal belongings on the bus.
vii) There are three (3) standard methods of emergency evacuation.
(1) EVACUATION BY:
50
(a) Front service door only
(b) Rear emergency door only
(c) Both front and rear doors
viii) Student should be informed that school bus windshields and rear windows are
mounted in rubber and can usually be kicked out to provide an additional
emergency escape exit. Some school buses are equipped with emergency push
out windows, emergency roof hatched and side emergency doors. The students
should be instructed as to the proper use of these exits.
ix) During the drill, the driver will remain on the bus and direct an orderly evacuation.
x) Instruct pupils to quickly walk 100 feet to the rear of the bus and away from traffic
after they exit.
i) Caution all pupils to avoid striking the door header when exiting.
ii) The principal or designee should stand near the rear of the bus to supervise.
When the driver has checked to see that all pupils have exited, the driver will
close and secure the rear door along with other emergency exits. After the bus
as been evacuated, pupils will re-enter the vehicle to collect books and personal
belongings.
b) The Bus Should Be Immediately Evacuated If The Following Occurs:
i) Fire of danger of fire.
ii) Unsafe position - if the bus is stopped due to an accident of mechanical failure,
the driver must determine immediately whether passengers should remain in the
bus or evacuate. The driver must instruct students to evacuate if.
(1) The final stopping point of the bus is in the path of a train or on any railroad
tracks.
(2) The final stopping place of the bus is near a body of water, a river or canal
where the bus might move and go into the water.
(3) The bus is stopped on a hill or a curve where there is less than 200 feet of
visibility.
(4) The bus is stopped in an area where heavy traffic may jeopardize the safety
of the students and an area away from traffic is available for the students to
wait for a replacement bus or for repairs to be performed.
The school bus driver is responsible for the safety of the riders. However, in an emergency, the
driver might be incapacitated. Several reliable riders on each bus route should be instructed as to
what procedures to follow in the event the driver is unable to respond.
51
EVACUATION PLAN
o IT IS THE DRIVERS RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE
AN EVACUATION PLAN FOR EACH SCHOOL
ASSIGNED TO THEM. THE PLAN MUST BE
SUBMITTED TO YOUR SUPERVISOR, WITH
SEATING CHARTS AND BUS CARDS.
o THIS WILL BE AN IN DEPTH HOW TO EVACUATE
EACH STUDENT OFF THE BUS TO A SAFE AREA
AWAY FROM THE BUS.
o THIS WILL ALSO INCORPORATE THE PROPER
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES.
o YOU WILL NEED TO MAKE SURE THAT YOU AND
YOUR AIDE ARE AWARE OF YOUR
RESPONSIBILITIES IN THIS PLAN.
o THE DRIVER MUST WORK WITH THE AIDE SO
THEY ARE BOTH AWARE OF ALL EMERGENCY
PROCEDURES AND POLICIES IN CASE THE
DRIVER IS INCAPACITATED DUE TO AN
ACCIDENT.
SEATING CHARTS MUST BE CLEARLY MARKED NAME,
PHONE# AND D.O.B. IF YOU HAVE A STUDENT WITH
ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS: EPI-PEN,
DIASTAT, SUCTION, SEIZURES, OXYGEN OR RUNNER
ETC., PLEASE LIST IT AFTER THE STUDENT NAME ON
THE SEATING CHART.
52
SCHOOL BUS EVACUATION DRILL REPORT
DATE:
SCHOOL:
BUS #:
DRIVER:
FOR SCHOOL USE ONLY
Check as completed:
Front Door
secs.
Rear Door
Please check one: Satisfactory
secs.
Both Doors
secs.
Unsatisfactory
Comments:
Principal/Designee Signature:
Please forward via courier to Transportation Department
Seating Charts & Bus Cards
This year Bus Registration Cards will be available in English, Spanish, and Creole. This
53
should assist some families from whom you have been unable to get bus cards back in
previous years. To translate, just hold the English card next to the other one and line-byline, they are the same.
Bus Cards should be given out immediately and received back within two days. It is
school board policy to have a bus card on every rider. In the event of an
emergency, law enforcement agencies utilize the information, as well as managers
attempting to reach parents or other emergency contacts. Every new rider should be
given a bus card and have a seat assigned.
Seating Charts are expected by no later than Labor Day Return. Turn in a copy to the
school and your manager and keep one on the bus. A Seating Chart should be
completed on every tier with changes made as necessary. Include address and date of
birth. Again in the event of an emergency, law enforcement utilizes the chart. Risk
management may use it if an injury has occurred. Most importantly, the schools use
them in dealing with bus referrals. It is urgently important to the Sub Drivers covering
your bus when you are out.
Bus Registration Cards and Seating Charts are considered necessary and
required paperwork that you must complete.
54
BUS CARDS
55
56
SECURITY & STUDENT
MANAGEMENT
Security Officers will be stretched very thin this year due to
an anticipated reduction in force. Please do not expect
more than one officer available for call per shift north of
Midway and one south of Midway.
This means student management and discipline will fall on your
shoulders, in the principals' laps, and possibly with the police.
Choose your battles. Write them up instead of burning a security
call. The police will stop coming if all you are calling for is
because the child won't sit down. Do not call unless there is a
gross violation of the law, an accident, or an impending threat of
safety. Otherwise make the parent contact, school contact with
incident reports, and then write the referrals. Keep Dispatch
informed if issues arise. Do not use your brakes or your windows as
student management tools. Remember, with only two officers
possibly available each shift, it will do no good to pull over and wait
on them. If they are clearing an accident scene or handling a school
situation, it may be over an hour before they can respond.
57
58
59
PREVENTION
Tips for Communicating with Kids
•
•
•
•
•
Respect their feelings, needs, and rights
Be Specific- State the problem simply and directly
Be concise- Don't preach! Only state the important parts, inappropriate behavior and
suggested solution.
Use "I" Messages-"You" messages create defensiveness'
Be Consistent- Adolescents are particularly sensitive to "unfairness."
"The Formula"
I feel
When you.
So I want you to
Coping Preventively
Address Social and Personal Growth
Become a Active Listener
Have Clear Expectations
Model Classroom Behavior
Recognize Good Behavior
Provide Adequate Supervision
Allow some Freedom
Be Well Prepared
REMEMBER:
•
•
BUS
•
PREVENTION IS MORE EFFECTIVE THAN INTERVENTION
INTERVENTION IS MORE EFFECTIVE THAN SUSPENSION FROM THE
WHOEVER IS UPSET OVER SOMETHING OWNS THE PROBLEM
Practical Discipline Guidelines
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
The most practical discipline technique is to welcome every student.
It takes less time at the end when you spend more time in the beginning.
When students withdraw, make an even bigger invitation.
Discipline responses require a two-stage approach: stabilize and teach.
Model effective expressions of anger with your students.
When you take something away, give something back.
Never use something you want a child to love as a consequence.
Eventually you must face a student who misbehaves; no one can do it for you.
When disciplining students, always provide choices and limits.
No one can change their behavior with a commitment.
Compliment older student in privately to avoid embarrassment.
60
UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSES OF MISBEHAVIOR
BOREDOM: Boredom is a source of discipline problems.
LOW SELF-CONCEPT: It's better to be bad than it is to be stupid.
POWERLESS: Giving students a chance to make choices and evaluate the outcomes is the best way to
learn to be responsible.
UNCLEAR LIMITS: It is unfair and impractical to expect students to do something without telling
them what you want.
FEW EMOTIONAL OUTLETS: It is far easier to control behavior than it is to control feelings.
IF A PROBLEM OCCURS
1. AVOID SARCASM
2. DISCIPLINE PRIVATELY
3. ONE PERSON MUST BE THE ADULT
WOULD YOU SAY THAT TO MOM OR DAD?
61
Bus Driver to Parent Intervention Courtesy Call
Suggested Script
Greeting/Introduction:
Hello! This is
I am
(name of bus driver).
‘s (student's Name) bus driver on bus number
Reason for Call:
I am calling to let you know that I have a safety problem with
Name) on the bus.
(child's
Statement of the Problem:
Tell the parent the problem specifically including the actual 'language or terminology '
used by the student. Relate the problem to the specific rules of the bus and the safety
problem that results.
Example: "Johnny keeps getting out of his seat and moving up the aisle to visit with his
friend. It is a safety concern because Johnny might fall and this is contrary to the Bus
Rules that we went over at the beginning of the year.”
Information/Consequences:
"I have already spoken with
(child's name) about this on date and
have documented the conversation. I have also other action you have taken
.
Warning/Consequences:
If the safety problem continues, the next step would be an incident referral sent to the
school. I a required to note in my records any actions I take to handle this problem.
Thanks/Closing:
"I am requesting your help to solve this safety problem. Together, I think we can solve
this before becomes more serious. Can I count on you for help? Thank you for your
help and support this year."
Some tips for special situations what may happen during your
call…
If the parent begins to criticize the driver (drives too fast, yells at children, picks on their
child)...
`If you have a problem with me or my route, you may want to call my area manager,
(supervisor's name) at
(phone
number).
If parent tells you other children were involved or caused the problem...
"I am not aware that (repeat information from parent)
but I will be glad to pay close attention from now on."If parent accuses bus driver of "yelling" at students on the bus...
"Unfortunately because of the noise level and size of the bus, there are many times
I have to raise my voice to be heard. I cannot always stop the bus to talk quietly to
the group because I have to finish my route on time to pick up the next school."
62
MEMORANDUM
TO:
All Drivers
FROM:
Director of Transportation
RE:
Procedure for Submitting Student Referrals and Incident Reports
When a driver finds it necessary to correct student behavior on the school bus, the proper
procedure for documenting this is to use a School Bus Incident Report form. The form is selfexplanatory. There is space on the form for the school to indicate the action taken. There are
four copies of the form and the parent, driver, school and area manager should each receive a
copy as indicated on the bottom of the form.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding the student's behavior and the severity of the
offence, a driver may find it necessary to follow up after one or more School Bus Incident
Reports by using a Bus Safety Referral form. An Area Manager or Security Officer must initial
this form before a school receives it, unless a school administrator has requested the form
directly from the driver. Generally a Bus Safety Referral should not be used until after one or
more Incident Reports have been turned in, and the driver has documented on the Incident
Report the efforts he/she has made to correct the behavioral problem, including:
•
•
•
•
Verbal warnings to the student
Changing the seat assignment
Personal contact with the parent(s)
Asked school administrator to talk with student
The actions taken by the driver to correct the problem prior to turning in the referral and the
dates must be completed on the referral form in the space indicated: "Action taken before
referral (brief description and dates)."
If a student presents a dangerous situation on the bus to you or to another student, you should
contact our Security Department and/or the school administrator and request immediate
assistance.
63
STUDENT DISCIPLINE REFERRAL PROCEDURE
Unless there is some egregious act that warrants an immediate referral, we ask
drivers to follow the steps prescribed during this in-service. First, determine if the
child's action could be curtailed or rectified by verbal warning(s), parent
involvement, school based personnel initiative, or some other corrective measure.
Remember, writing a referral is a last result and should never be used as the initial
response to a disciplinary problem or situation.
Step 1
Fill in completely all the following lines, and remember to
check the appropriate box (or both boxes if they apply) at the top of
the referral. When explaining the incident, you must tell who did it,
what did the person(s) do, Where (location) the infraction
(violation) occurred, and When (date and time) did the violation
occur. This information is essential to the discipline referral process
and without it "due process" cannot go forward. Also, you must
explain the dates and times of "all" previous actions taken before
writing the referral. By doing this, it shows the parent, child, and
school administrator that you have exhausted all practical means for
correcting a disciplinary problem: yet, the problem still exists.
Step 2
Upon completing the discipline referral, sign it, and
immediately turn it in to your Area Manager for review and his/her
signature. Please do not allow referrals or disciplinary actions to
linger; the sooner a problem is addressed, the quicker corrective
actions could be administered.
Step 3
No referral should be turned in to the school with out
Manager’s signature unless advised by security or school personnel.
This entire process should take no more than 24 hours.
64
65
66
The School Board of St. Lucie County, FL
Transportation Department
Pupil Accident Report
IMPORTANT
FILL OUT THIS FORM COMPLETELY, ANSWERING ALL QUESTIONS. MAKE OUT
THIS REPORT NO MATTER HOW MINOR THE INJURIES ARE. TURN IN THE
REPORT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. (SAME DAY) THE REPORT SHOULD BE
TURNED INTO THE SAFETY OFFICER. THANK YOU.
Pupil's Name:
Phone No.:
Address:
Age:
Sex:
Date of Accident:
Time of Accident:
Bus #:
Weather Condition:
Pupil Getting On
Enroute to
or Off
or From
The Bus.
School.
School Pupil Attends:
Nature of Injury:
State What/How The Accident Happened:
Person Accident Reported To:
Driver's Signature:
67
A.M./ P.M.
ACCIDENTS
1) A number of things must be done quickly after a bus accident. The order and number
will vary in terms of the severity of the accident, extent of injuries, traffic conditions,
and local policies. I f the driver is to control events after an accident, he/she must keep
calm.
2) Accident Involving Other Vehicles
a) Stop the bus immediately, no matter how minor the accident may appear to be and
contact Radio Dispatch immediately with your exact location of the accident.
b) Turn off ignition. Then place the key in the "on" position to enable you to continue
radio contact.
c) Activate hazard flashers.
3) Do not permit smoking in the vicinity of the bus.
4) I f the bus is in a hazardous location, move it to a safer location. Move the vehicle off
the roadway if possible.
5) If there is fire or danger of fire, quickly evacuate the passengers. Keep them in a
group. If there is no fire danger, student passengers are usually safer if they remain on
the bus. The driver must evaluate each factor of a situation at the time of the incident
to determine the safest response for the students.
6) Determine if anyone is injured.
a) Attend to severe injuries quickly; but remember, do not move injured persons
unless it is necessary to prevent further injury.
7) Send for help and notify authorities. Ask an adult or responsible student to make the
calls. I f students are sent, it is recommended that two go together. Be sure the person
making the call has the following information:
a) Exact location of the accident.
b) Approximate number and severity of injuries.
c) Whether an ambulance is needed.
8) Whenever a bus is disabled upon the highway or shoulder of the highway, the
emergency triangular reflectors should be displayed as follows:
a) Upon a divided highway, one approximately 200 feet to the rear in the center of the
lane occupied by the bus, one in the center of the lane 100 feet to the rear, and one to
the rear at the traffic side approximately 10 feet from the bus.
b) On a two lane highway, one approximately 100 feet in advance, one 100 feet to the
rear in the center of the traffic lane occupied by the bus, one at the traffic side
approximately 10 feet to the rear of the vehicle.
68
Additional Information
In all cases where there are injuries and/or property damage, a traffic
enforcement agency must be notified. Do not leave the scene until released by
the investigating office. In addition, school officials must be notified.
1) Be careful what you say:
a) Be calm, cooperative and courteous.
b) Do not admit fault on your part.
c) Do not accuse the other driver.
d) Be accurate and factual when talking with the law enforcement agent.
2) It is important that the bus driver obtain certain information at the scene:
a) Names, addresses and driver's license numbers of other drivers involved.
b) Name, address, birth date and seat location of students on board.
c) Name and address of owners of property damaged.
d) License number of vehicles involved.
e) Make and model of vehicles involved.
f) Name and address of witnesses.
g) Location and time of accident.
h) Weather conditions.
i) Type and condition of road surface.
j) Visibility.
k) Position of vehicles or damaged property in relationship to the bus.
3) Give the driver of the other vehicle, or damaged property owner, complete
information concerning your name, address, driver’s license number, your
school district address, make and model of the bus and general information
needed to file an accident report. Write an accident report immediately after
every accident involving damage of the bus or school bus passengers,
regardless of severity.
ALL ACCIDENTS MUST BE REPORTED.
69
Things to remember when approached by the media...
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
You don't have to give an interview. Don't allow a reporter to make
you feel pressured to talk to him or her. (Example: "I really need to get
this story by 4:00 to make my deadline and your supervisor is not
available.")
Don't say, "No comment." Suggest to the reporter that he or she
should speak with your supervisor. (Example: You have just been in an
accident where children are hurt. Refer all inquiries to the supervisor
on scene.)
If you don ' t know the answer to a question, don't guess. Say you
don ' t know. (Example: "How many children are transported in this
county?")
There is no such thing as "off the record." When you are talking to a
reporter, anything you say can and will end up in print or on the air.
(Example: "I understand you don't want to talk about the accident, but
let's just go off the record for a minute.")
Do not give personal information about a student. (Example: "I
understand the student who was arrested on your bus is in special
education classes because of emotional problems.")
Remember confidentiality. You are not liable for what you do not
say. You are liable ONLY for what you do say.
Don't always accept what a reporter says as truth. He or she may
just be trying to get a sensational answer from you. (Example: "I talked
to your supervisor, and he said that there have always been problems
with Mrs. Smith mistreating the kids on her bus. Is that true?")
Don't answer hypothetical or "what if" questions. If you are speaking
about a situation, stick to ONLY the facts you know. (Example: "What if
you had a student bring a gun on your bus as they did in West Palm
Beach. What would you do?" "If this situation had happened on Mr.
Jones' bus, how do you think he would have reacted?")
Don ' t let a reporter lure you into giving your personal opinion.
(Example: "You have given me the facts, but what is your gut feeling on
who was responsible for the accident? " )
Don't allow reporters on your bus unless instructed to do so by your
supervisor. (Example: "I just need to get couple of shots on your bus for
my story. " )
Always notify your supervisor immediately if you notice the media
filming in your work area or if you are contacted by or speak to the
media.
Call Ginger King at the Information Office if your supervisor is not
available, and you need help. Office: 429-5500.
70
OVERCROWDING PROCEDURE
In the event a driver finds her bus over capacity at afternoon dismissal, she is to
immediately notify dispatch for permission to either proceed or have children
transferred to another bus. The driver is to take a stop by stop head count with
names. The list is then compared to the bus detail list to check for children belonging
on another bus or other unauthorized riders. If the new riders are legitimate, stops will
be adjusted or a larger bus will be assigned as soon as possible.
71
ST. LUCIE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICIT
FEFP SURVEY WRITE IN SHEET
DATE
SCHOOL GRADE
FIRST
NAME
LAST NAME
BUS STOP
1/23/06
72
Bus#_____
ADDRESS
73
TIMESHEETS & YOUR PAYROLL
(It's very important to read this part of the book. It's all about how you
get your money.)
Turn in Timesheets by 10am Monday.
$ You must be Locked-In by October 15, 2008. Lock-In times dictate your benefits
such as sick time, personal time, and retirement. This gives you a month in which to
sort your route out. If your route changes after that, ask for a new Lock-In.
$ When you write "Lock-In" on your timesheet, put the total daily time. Such as
"LOCKED IN TIME = 7.5 HOURS". If your Lock-In Time contains a mid-day, do not
write the midday down as well. Any CBI’s or other additional work must be written in
as “extra work” and signed by appropriate staff.
$ If you are claiming any unassigned time, it must be initialed by a manager or a
dispatcher on your time sheet or accompanied by an extracurricular worksheet or field
trip sheet, etc. Put on the time sheet what you did: AR for 2238 FGMS 4:30 to 6:00
per Mrs. Wilson or PU students at 25th & Q for 9954 SOMS per Griffin or late due to
accident on PSLB. Have it signed!
$ No early check ins, no late check outs, no standby time, no unassigned time will be
paid unless it is accompanied by a signature of a manager, dispatcher, or authorized
office staff.
$ SUBS!!!!! Once you are assigned to a route, you are no longer to arrive at 5am unless
instructed otherwise. You come in at the route's specified check in time.
$ Standbys must remain visible to Dispatch at North and South Compounds. If you
cannot be seen, you are not there. Sign in and remain in the lobby/lounge. You are
not considered as "Stand By" in your car, bus or elsewhere.
$ Common sense suggestions: write legibly, put your name on your time sheet, put the
pay week on your time sheet, list your bus number, and use print not cursive.
74
$ Turn your timesheets in on time. South and North Compounds have locked boxes in
which to put your timesheets. They are due the first workday after the week ends.
For example, 8/9 - 8/13 is due no later than Monday morning 8/16.
$ If you are absent, write that on your time sheet. Do not continue to write "Lock In" as
if you were there.
$ You must fill out Absence Paperwork or you will not be paid for it. This is your
responsibility to fill it out, get it signed, and turn it in.
$ Remember a Request for Leave is just that, a request. It does not mean you will be
granted that time off. Unauthorized leave will not be tolerated.
$ SUBS!!! We count on your attendance. You are expected to ask for leave as well and
fill out Sub Sheets. Do not forget to put activity runs or mid-day runs on Sub Sheets.
$ If you have a payroll question, please put it in writing with a copy of your paycheck
stub and the timesheet in question. Payroll will respond as quickly as possible. They
are extremely busy and interruptions disrupt her focus on having a mistake free
payroll. They do manual payroll for 500 people.
$ We audit each timesheet for correct times by comparing times claimed with lock in
sheets, route sheets, sub sheets, an attendance list, standby lists, activity and midday rosters, field trip forms, dispatch logs, and our GPS tracking software.
$ Overtime will be held to a minimum. You are expected to notify your manager or trip
coordinator and possibly turn extra work back in if it places you in excessive
overtime.
$ Get it in on time, get it right, get it signed and we will get you paid.
75
76
CLEAN UP AND KEY TIME
Turn in your keys and clean your assigned bus.
It is your dollars at stake.
Keys will be inventoried after each shift. No key means a
dockage for that shift.
Buses will be randomly inspected for cleanliness.
Be professional; complete the tasks you are paid for.
Take pride in what you do.
Complete your pre-trip inspections and turn in your
paperwork.
77
Jane Doe
5:30
9:45
Return to
stop to
p/u 1
student
123-45-6789
5:30
9:15
1:00
5:00
FT 0003
9:30
12:00
32
10023
10145
Locked In
7/16 – 7/20/07
DM
Jane E. Doe
1:00
6:00 Bus
Break
down @
US 1 &
Walton Rd.
1234
78
Transportation Department
St. Lucie District Schools
2008-2009 LOCK IN REPORT
Driver:
SS#:
Route:
Compound:
N
S
WW
Schools:
A.M.
P.M.
Check In:
Check In:
Check Out:
Check Out:
Route Time:
hrs.
min.
Additional Assignment(s)
Description:
Out:
M
In:
Tu
Out:
/5=
M
In:
Th
F
or
Daily
Additional Minutes Per day:
Additional Minutes Per week:
total lock in time.
Description:
W
Tu
W
minutes per day added to
Th
F
or
Daily
Additional Minutes Per day:
Additional Minutes Per week:
total lock in time.
/5=
Additional Time:
Total Lock-In Time:
Router/Manager Initial
minutes per day added to
hrs.
min.
hrs.
min.
Driver Initial
Date:
Date:
79
Authority:
Law Implemented:
2:30.22(2), Fla. Stat.
2:30.23(8), Fla. Stat.
Field Trip Operating Procedures
Driver Instructions for Waiting
Drivers should arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for student
loading and actual departure from the school at the designated time unless a longer time is
requested for loading by the school. Drivers should not normally wait more than 15 minutes
beyond the scheduled departure time. You may need to get off the bus and check in with the
main office of the school after 15 minutes beyond the scheduled departure time. If the
students are not loading by this time, call the Field Trip Office or the Dispatcher to inform them
you are returning to the compound. If dispatch is not on duty, fill out an Incident Report the
next workday and give it to the Field Trip Office so that we can follow up with the school.
Sponsors and students must be reminded that you must be back at their school no later than 1:00
pm in order to allow you to keep your assigned schedule for the afternoon run. Please remind
sponsors that they are responsible for the behavior of the students while on the bus and
everyone must be seated while bus is in motion.
Mileage
All mileage must be recorded for any type of trip. Field trip mileage should be recorded from
the school back to the school if you are on a trip in the middle of you regular route. If and only
if your trip is leaving from the compound then mileage is recorded compound to compound.
Maps and Directions
It is the trip sponsors responsibility to provide directions to the driver for reaching the
destination of the trip. Please be sure the sponsor knows where they are going BEFORE you
leave town so that they can obtain directions. If you are unsure about general driving
directions, please ask the Field Trip Coordinator to give you written directions to the general
location.
80
Vehicle Breakdowns
Every effort is made by our fleet maintenance department to ensure that all buses are
roadworthy and ready to be taken out of town at any time.
In the event you have a breakdown or need repair while on the road, please call the Field Trip
Coordinator who will contact the appropriate mechanic. If you are out-of- district, we have a
list of local district mechanics that are on duty to handle road calls. We will make every effort
to minimize the time you are inconvenienced.
Fuel Cards
The Field Trip Coordinator has a sign-out procedure for obtaining fuel credit cards. It is the
driver’s responsibility to obtain cards at least one day prior to the trip. The cards may not
be used for any purchase other than fuel for district owned buses. The cards must be returned to
the Field Trip Coordinator thee next day after the trip with signed charge slips indicating bus
number, mileage, and date along with the driver name for proper accounting.
Gate Code
Make sure you have requested and been given a Gate Code to allow you to enter and exit from
the correct compound prior to leaving on a trip. You may request a gate code from the Field
Trip Office or the Secretary in the North or South Compounds.
Bus Assignment
OUT OF DISTRICT
You will be assigned a specific bus for all out of town field tips if available on the Trip Request.
This bus is to be used with no substitutions allowed unless the Field Trip Coordinator or
Dispatch has assigned a different bus.
IN DISTRICT
If the field trip is for an in-town trip, you should use your own bus. If you are driving a spare
that day, you may use the spare if your own bus is not available due to mechanical or other
reasons. If your bus has special equipment, EX. ( lift, car seats, harness, etc.,) you may
exchange your bus for a SPARE bus that will be assigned by the dispatch office or the field trip
office.
Unauthorized Riders
Only sponsors, parents and students enrolled in St. Lucie County schools are to be on the bus.
81
Caravan Trips
If there is more than one bus, all buses are directed to travel together unless otherwise instructed
by school officials. It is recommended that the driver most knowledgeable about the trip
location lead the other buses. Stay close enough that you can see the other buses you are
traveling with.
Coolers and Boxes
Coolers, boxes, and/or equipment need to be secured so aisles and emergency exits are kept
clear. It is your responsibility to not allow students, sponsors or coaches to block the aisle or
emergency exit.
Lost Items
Make sure the sponsor checks for any items left on the bus. It is your responsibility to get any
lost items returned to the school or turned in to Dispatch or the Field Trip Coordinator with a
written note indicating the school and date of the field trip.
Incidents with Students or Sponsors
Report any unusual incident to your Area Manager or Field Trip Coordinator as soon as
possible and complete an incident farm.
Toll Tickets or Parking Fees
Make sure that the sponsor knows they will be required to pay any tolls or parking fees that may
be incurred prior to leaving on the trip.
Fuel and Cleanup
All drivers are responsible for cleaning and fueling the trip bus PRIOR to departure from the
school. All buses used for Field Trips must be refueled upon returning to the compound.
Overnight Accommodations for Bus Driver
Check with the sponsor before leaving town on an overnight trip to ensure the sponsor has made
arrangements to pay for your hotel room and meals.
82
Field Trip Rate of Pay
The rate of pay for field trips is Drivers Current Driving Rate. The sponsor must sign the total
time of the field trip if returning later than the ending time on the form provided by the district.
This time may include up to 15 minutes for sweeping and cleaning the bus.
Field Trip Reimbursement Procedures
Field trip forms for reimbursement are required to be submitted by drivers along with the
trip tickets otherwise they forfeit reimbursement. In no case may a driver hold a form longer
than this time because it will not be accepted. Reports must show actual odometer readings and
the number of passengers and sponsors taking the field trip.
Meals will only be paid for out-of-town field trips that occur during regular meal times. The
meal allowance will only be paid if the sponsor has indicated on the field trip request that meals
are not being provided to the driver by either the sponsor or a merchant. It must follow the
specifications on back of meal ticket. A copy of your trip ticket must accompany the meal ticket
or it will not be accepted.
Food and Drink on the Bus
There are occasions when students and sponsors will want to stop for food while on out of town
trips. Due to safety hazards and insect problems that have resulted from this practice, students
are encouraged not to eat or drink on the bus. The Field trip coordinator can make exceptions
for extra long trips.
Sponsors
One or more sponsors are required on all field trips. If a sponsor tells you they wish to ride back
in another vehicle, please remind them politely that they are required to ride on the bus and
assist with passenger management going to and from the event.
83
FIELD TRIP PROCEDURES
* Field Trips will be announced on the SB Trip channel between approximately 7:15 to 8:15
each morning or 2:15 to 3:15 each afternoon if needed.
* When it is time for trips to be announced, the FTC will go to the dispatch channel, SB DSP N,
and SB DSP S, & tell specific drivers to go to the SB trip channel.
* After accepting or declining a trip, you must return to the dispatch channel.
* The first available trip time for a regular driver in the morning is 9:30 to 1:00. The afternoon
start time will be 4:45.
* There will be four rosters, Out-of-Town, Overnight, Local, and Emergency.
* Trip tickets should be filled out completely and turned in the same week of the trip. Trip
mileage reported should be school to school if in the middle of route. Trip mileage is from
compound to compound if leaving from the compound only.
* All Calls are trips that are called out due to odd time frames or last minute scheduling, & will
be assigned according to the CWA contract. Emergency rooster is within 24 hours of the trip
departure time.
* In accordance with the CWA contract, if a driver accepts a trip and then returns it within five
working days of the actual trip departure, he/she will be skipped in the next rotation.
* Every driver & attendant will be able to view a seniority roster in each compound.
* When field trips are called on the radio and you do not respond after second call, you will be
passed. Please make sure you take care of your personal needs before the calling of trips.
* Any driver whose radio is not working has to fill out a Request for Repair Report. It must be
given to dispatch or the garage before the calling of field trips in order to be compensated.
* Please remember to fuel your bus, keep your keys, and obtain any credit cards if needed on
Friday if you accept a weekend trip.
* Please remember to fill out your Employee Listings form whether you intend to do
field trips this year or not Drivers and Attendants. We need current phone numbers
that you can be reached if needed.
84
ACTIVITIES, MIDDAYS, and TUTORIALS

As assignments come into the office, they will be called out over the
radio for assignment. Drivers that are interested need only to respond with
their seniority number. Extra work will be assigned to the most senior driver
that the assignment will not place into overtime. Route times will be taken
from the most recent routing department times on record. If it is incorrect, it is
your responsibility to get it changed with routing. The calling of assignments
will not be interrupted to check on your times.

If your route changes causing overtime to occur, you are expected to
turn in your extra-curricular assignment for adjustment. It will be reassigned
if you fail to do this.

After school activities will run no longer than two hours. Record actual
time for any after school run, midday, or tutorial that you do.

There will be no "bumping" or taking of another driver's assignment
because you are more senior. Once an extra work assignment has been
assigned, it stays with the original driver it was assigned to, until the driver no
longer wants it, it is discontinued, or it causes overtime.

Extra assignments will not be split unless it is impossible to cover with
just one driver. Split activities are too hard to keep up with when absences
occur.

If you are unable to do your assigned extra work, (either permanently or
temporarily), you must contact the Activity Office before the start of your
afternoon run. If your extra work is covered three times without a valid, preapproved excuse, it will be taken and reassigned.

If you are to be absent, PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU PUT YOUR
EXTRA WORK ASSIGNMENT ON THE SUB SHEET TO INSURE IT IS
COVERED WHILE YOU ARE GONE.
85
PREVIOUS CHANGES TO FIELD TRIP PROCEDURES
• We no longer assign make-up trips to drivers for field trips that have been canceled. You will
however be eligible for two hours of pay to record on your time sheet ONLY if you were not
notified twelve hours before trip departure time. This will require a signature on your time sheet
from the field trip office verifying that you are eligible for this supplement pay in order to
receive payment.
• The Wheelchair Access Roster and Attendant’s Roster has been discontinued as of 2001/2002
school term. Any trips requiring special needs such as car seats, lifts, etc. will be assigned in a
packet and distributed to eligible drivers as a mid-day and you will be paid your regular rate of
pay.
• Field trips that have been turned in after business hours on a Friday and the trip is departing
that weekend will be called off the Emergency Roster from the phone list provided through Ms.
Williams secretary, Terry Hodge. PLEASE make sure that your telephone numbers are
updated at all times so that you will not miss your turn in rotation.
• You will be required once again to record your mileage on the actual trip ticket. For
accounting purposes, please make sure you put the exact length of your trip and mileage from
compound to compound. Please do not attach the trip ticket to your time sheet, turn the
ticket directly into the field trip office no later than two working days after the trip has
taken place.
• Meal reimbursement will only be given for out of county trips and only if your trip ticket
stipulates that the school is not providing the meals.
• Again this year we will transport team players to activity stops after their games only if they
request this service prior to trip departure. If you are asked by a coach to transport team players
to destinations other than the school and you have not been given advance notice through the
trip office, you are not required to transport students home. In the event you are feeling “free
hearted”, you may transport students home but please document the miles and time it took you
from start to finish so that the school can be billed for our services and you can be paid for this
extra time.
• Due to the need to watch overtime expenditures, the sign up books will not be used this year.
86

Addition to Field Trip Procedures and Guidelines
All drivers are required now to a short explanation of the Safety
Instructions just in case there needs to be an evacuation of the bus
while on the trip.
The few basic safety instructions are as follows:
 Make Passengers aware of all emergency exits and assign
seats with emergency exits to a responsible individual.
 Aisles and exists are kept clear
 In the event of an evacuation, the driver will need two (2)
assistants to aid in the evacuation off the bus and one (1) to
lead the passengers to a safe distance away from the bus.
 Point out the fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and body fluid kit, as
well as reflectors.
 Review the railroad crossing procedures; Driver will need the
bus to be quiet during the crossing.
 All rules that apply during regular routes to and from school
apply during a field trip. Students will be disciplined in the
same manner.
 Let passengers know talking is allowed, but keep the noise
level to a minimum.
 Ensure any incidents (student injury) are reported to the
Transportation Office immediately.
The instructions should be done before each and every field trip
that is taken by any driver no matter what age the students are
going on the trip.
87






As Assignments come into the office, they will be assigned over the radio. Drivers
that are interested need to respond with there seniority numbers only. Extra work
will be assigned to the most senior driver that the assignment will not place into
overtime. Route times will be taken from the most current time from routing on
record. If it is incorrect, it will be your responsibility to make sure it has been
corrected. The assignments will not be interrupted to check your route time.
If your route changes causing overtime to occur, you are expected to turn in your
extra work assignment for adjustment. It will be reassigned if you fail to comply.
After-school activities will no longer be longer than two hours max. You are
required to record your actual time for any type of extra work you are assigned.
There will be no “bumping” or taking of another drivers assignment because you
are more senior. Once an extra work assignment has been assigned, it stays with the
original driver it was assigned to, until that driver no longer wants it, it is
discontinued, or it causes them to be in overtime.
Extra assignments will not be split between drivers unless it is impossible to
cover with only one driver. Extra work that is split is just to hard to keep up with
when absences occur.
If you are unable to do your assigned extra work, (either permanently or
temporarily) you must contact the Field Trip Office before the start of your
afternoon run. If your extra work is covered three times without a valid, preapproved excuse, it will be taken away and reassigned.
If you are going to be absent or you call in, PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU PUT
YOUR EXTRA WORK ASSIGNMENT ON THE SUB SHEET OR TELL
DISPATCH SO THAT IT IS COVERED WHILE YOU ARE OUT.
1.)
2.)
3.)
School Authorities using buses for special trips shall be
responsible for seeing that students and chaperones are properly
instructed in the rules of transportation prior to departure on a
trip. Special emphasis shall be placed on behavior and safety
rules.
There shall be no eating, drinking, or use of tobacco products on
the bus.
It shall be the responsibility of each school to provide
chaperones for each scheduled local or out of town trip, if no
chaperone/sponsor on board during transport students must sign
form including name, emergency contact number, and date of
birth. Two chaperones are recommended for each bus.
88
4.)
5.)
6.)
7.)
8.)
9.)
10.)
11.)
12.)
13.)
14.)
15.)
16.)
17.)
18.)
19.)
The proper conduct and role of all passengers will be the
responsibility of the chaperones. Drivers are responsible for
driving the bus safely.
Chaperones and bus drivers are jointly responsible for the safety
of student’s equipment.
Any damage to the bus caused by the students must be paid for
by the using organization and/or by the responsible student(s).
All passengers are to be absolutely silent while bus is
approaching or proceeding across any railroad crossing.
Passengers are not allowed to put arms, head, legs or any other
parts of the body out of the bus windows.
There will be no use of any abusive or profane language.
No objects will be thrown out of the bus windows.
All passengers are to be seated while the bus is in motion.
Under no conditions will objects be placed in the aisle or around
the operating mechanisms of the bus.
Passengers will load and unload from the front door only unless
otherwise directed or in an emergency.
Passengers will be asked to unload and remain a safe distance
from the bus while bus is being fueled.
Buses making out of town trips will not exceed fifty (50)
passengers and this includes chaperones. Please do not ask
driver to take over the load limit.
Buses making local trips will not exceed sixty-five (65)
passengers and this includes chaperones. Please do not ask
driver to take over the load limit.
When an organization requests more than (1) one bus for out of
town trips, drivers have been instructed to stay within sight of
each other whenever possible.
Drivers are not responsible for anything left on the bus before,
after or during the trip.
Parochial, private school, or pre-school children will not be
allowed to ride on local or out of town trips unless approved by
the Superintendent or the School Board.
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20.) No gasoline or other flammable liquids, animals, weapons or
anything could be considered a weapon will be permitted on
school buses.
21.) Athletic equipment will be placed under seats and out of the way
of the driver and bus aisle will be kept clear at all times.
22.) Shoes with cleats or spikes will not be worn on the bus. This
practice requires the rubber matting to be replaced on the bus.
23.) At the end of each local and out of town trip, the driver of each
bus shall file with the Supervisor of Transportation a written
report including the teachers or sponsors name, trip designation,
and report on student’s behavior. It is recommended the teacher
or sponsor file a written report to the principal of their respective
school revealing any instance of driver inefficiency or
misbehavior when such occurs.
24.) Regular drivers are required to be in appropriate dress when
taking a local and out of town trips.
25.) Drivers will be briefed by personnel of the transportation office
prior to going on the trip.
26.) Drivers will make certain that the bus is equipped with a fire
extinguisher, reflectors, flares and a first aid kit prior to
departures.
27.) Drivers will report to the proper place and time, will be neat, and
be courteous at all times.
28.) Drivers will make certain the bus is clean after each trip.
29.) Drivers that are having maintenance problems on trips will pull
off the road and wait for assistance. Other school bus drivers will
stop to offer help with authorization. You may have to double up
the passengers in order to reach your destination.
30.) Drivers should use good common sense when something happens
other than what is in writing.
31.) Large music instruments are not to be transported on school
buses. The band director will arrange for a truck from the
transportation department or make other arrangements for
transporting these instruments.
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32.) Only drivers holding a valid CDL driver’s license with the correct
endorsements (P & S) are to drive on local and out of town trips.
33.) All regular bus drivers who would like to do trips (non routes) will
sign up for the rosters at the beginning of the school year. All
trips will be offered to drivers according to their seniority as bus
drivers for the St. Lucie County School Board. If contacted, the
driver will accept or reject the trip. If the trip is accepted or
rejected or the driver cannot be contacted, that driver will be
skipped on the roster and the process will proceed to the next
driver on the roster in seniority order.
34.) It is the teacher’s, sponsors, or chaperone’s responsibility to give
directions to the driver for their particular trip.
35.) Trip request forms, must be turned into the Transportation
Department prior to the trips being approved or disapproved.
36.) It will be the driver’s responsibility to get a credit card from the
Transportation Office, for out of town trips.
37.) Driver’s pay starts at bus compound and ends at bus compound.
This includes time for cleaning the bus. Mileage starts at school
and ends at school. Sponsor is to sign driver’s form at the end of
the trip to verify time.
38.) Sponsor or organizations are responsible for extra expenses
incurred in trips (ex. Tolls).
39.) Driver should be notified by the using organization if a group is
stopping for a meal prior to leaving on the trip.
40.) Driver turning in a meal ticket, it must follow the parameters on
the back in order to get reimbursed and a copy of the trip ticket
must be attached to meal ticket. This is only for out of town
trips. Schools will be charged for the reimbursement for the
driver.
41.) Lunches will be allowed to be carried into the bus, but no eating
will be allowed on the bus. No drink cases will be permitted on
the bus unless especially authorized.
42.) Only specifically designated and appropriately qualified
employees will be allowed to drive on any particular trip.
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43.) If a trip is cancelled for any reason, the school shall call the
Transportation Office as soon as possible so the driver will not
make an unnecessary trip. If a driver reports to a school and the
trip is cancelled without the driver’s prior knowledge, the driver
will be paid a (2) two hour show up time and school will be
charged a 50.00 cancellation fee.
44.) Drivers will drive always at a safe speed and never in excess of
thirty (30) miles per hour in business or residential districts or up
to fifty-five (55) miles per hour when permitted outside business
or residential districts.
45.) No telephone requests will be accepted by the transportation
department for buses, except in extenuating circumstances.
46.) Direct costs of the driver’s salary, benefits, proportionate fuel,
oil, etc. will be billed to the appropriate organization or program
whenever there is a trip.
47.) A mechanic driving a truck or other vehicle on field trip will be
paid the same rate of pay per hour as a bus drivers pay for trips.
48.) When an out of trip is such a nature that the bus driver or
mechanic will be required to spend the night or longer away from
home, sleeping facilities will be provided for the driver or
mechanic by the school or organization that is on trip.
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2008-2009 Field Trip Roster Sign up Form
Pursuant to CWA Contract section 19.6A, I wish to sign up for the following rosters for St.
Lucie County Field Trips.
Circle all that apply:

I wish to sign up for the following rosters:
Local Field Trips
Out of Town Field Trips
Overnight Field Trips
Emergency Field Trips
Extra work (Activities, Tutorials, & Middays)

I DO NOT wish to sign up for any of the above rosters.
I understand that I am responsible for ensuring the Field Trip Office has a current working
telephone number so that I may be reached. If the office attempts to reach me and my
telephone is not in service or has been disconnected, I will be removed from all field trip
rosters for the next assignment rotation.
Changes in address and telephone number may be turned in at any time to the Field Trip Office.
The change must be given in writing.
Print Name: ________________________
Seniority Number: __________
Position: ________________________
Bus Number: _____________
Signed: ______________________________
3 Different contact
Phone Numbers: _______________
________________
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________________
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Running Out of Fuel
Running out of fuel in your bus can cause endangerment of students, as well as potential damage to
district property and personal injury. As a precaution, all drivers should not allow their fuel gauges to
go below the half (1/2) mark before refueling. Any driver who allows their school bus to run out of fuel
(requiring fuel to be brought to the vehicle or the vehicle to be towed) has violated School Board policy and
is subject to disciplinary action. Any driver who must cut a route or run short due to low fuel is subject to
disciplinary action.
Any employee whose bus must be fueled while away from the compound (unless the bus must be fueled
while out-of-town on a field trip) will be subject to disciplinary action following an investigation of the cause
of the problem. If the Vehicle Service Manager or Shop Forman can verify there is a mechanical cause for
the fuel loss (such as a malfunctioning gauge or leaking tank), no action will be taken against the driver.
If this cannot be confirmed, the Director of Transportation will recommend that the Superintendent approve
a two-day Leave without Pay for the employee.
A second violation of this policy will result in a recommendation for dismissal.
96
IF YOU USE A GAS CARD
PLEASE WRITE YOUR NAME
BUS # AND BUS MILEAGE
ON THE GAS RECEIPT
NAME:
BUS#
BUS MILEAGE:
GAS CARD NUMBER:
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The School Board of St. Lucie County
School Bus Driver Annual Evaluation
Name:
Date:
For the Performance Factors listed below, please rate 1 to 5 the employee's achievement of each
factor. Ratings: 5= Excellent, 4=Above Average, 3=Acceptable, 2= Needs Improvement, 1=Unsatisfactory
Performance Factors
Rating
Comments - If rating is 2 - Needs
Improvement or 1 – Not Effective, explain
deficiency and specific suggestions for
improvement. Use separate sheet and attach
as necessary.
1. Is on time and maintains a good attendance
record.
2. Dresses appropriately (including proper shoes).
3. Is cooperative; works well with others and is
considerate of fellow employees, students and
school staff.
4. Conducts complete and accurate pre-trip
inspections including lift, tie-downs, car seats,
harnesses)
5. Maintains up-to-date route, correct seating charts
and makes sure students are in assigned seats.
6. Drives according to schedule (VIA) at assigned
times.
7. Adheres to State and Federal highway
rules/regulations and exemplifies courtesy to other
motorists
8. Conducts and submits legible, accurate FTE and
other reports on time.
9. Uses correct procedures at railroad crossings, bus
stops and loading zones
10. Maintains radio contact and uses correct radio
procedure.
11. Checks bus and bus condition after each run for
students, seat condition, acceptable bus
cleanliness and articles left by students.
12. Utilizes appropriate student management
procedures to ensure students adhere to bus rules
and regulations, greets students and adopts a
positive approach to dealing with student behavior
Supervisor/Department Director Comments:
Supervisors Signature
Date
Overall Rating
Satisfactory
Unsatisfactory
Department Director's Signature
Date
Employee's Comments: ___________________________________________________________________
I understand that I may submit a written response stating reasons for any disagreement with the contents of
this evaluation to the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. My signature indicates receipt of this
document only and does not indicate my agreement or disagreement with its contents.
Employee's Signature
Date
White: Personnel Dept.
Canary: Transportation
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Pink: Employee
School Bus
Paraprofessionals
Handbook
Bus Stop Procedures
Responsibilities on and off the bus
Extra Curricular Training
Student Discipline
Parental Communication
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The School Board of St. Lucie County
Equipment Pre-Trip Inspection
A pre-trip equipment inspection must be performed by Bus Attendants before
his/her vehicle is placed on the road. This form must be filled in twice daily
(A.M. & P.M.) to document the inspections. Use the same form when assigned a
spare bus. Turn your pre-trip inspection form in at the end of each week. (Use
the Pre-Trip Inspection Box designated for your manager.)
Bus Attendant (please print) ___________________________________
Route # ___________
Month ________________
Bus #
Bench
Condition
Seat Belts
Tie Downs
Shoulder
Straps
Lift Operation
Car seatsCondition /
secure
Date__________________________
Monday Tuesday
Wednesday
AM PM AM PM AM PM
Indicate √ =OK
X =Needs repair
Also a Repair order needs to be completed if repairs are necessary
Comments:
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Thursday Friday
AM PM AM PM
Bus Stop Procedures for Bus Attendants
Loading and Unloading Procedures:
When the bus arrives at a student's stop, the bus paraprofessional is to get off the
bus and stand at the bottom of the steps to greet the child and parent prior to
loading. If a child has to cross the street to board, the paraprofessional is to cross the
street and accompany the student to the bus door. Follow the child up the steps to
assist as needed and to assure the child's safety.
This is an opportune time to check if the parent wishes to relay any
information to you such as seizure activity, a difficult morning, asthma attack,
etc. These should not be discussed in front of the child and should be kept as
brief as possible.
When the bus arrives at the school to unload, the bus paraprofessional should stand
outside the door to assist and assure the children's safety when they descend the
steps. Again this is an opportune time to pass information to school staff. Keep in
mind not to convey information in front of a child that could escalate the situation if
behavior is the issue. If privacy is needed, signal staff to step to the side.
When the bus returns the child to their designated stop, the bus paraprofessional is to
get off the bus before the child to assist or assure the child's safety when descending
the stairs and escort the child across the street if necessary. At no time is an ESE
student to be dropped without someone to meet him.
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Bus Stop Procedures for Bus Attendants
Loading and Unloading Procedures:
When the bus arrives at a student's stop, the bus paraprofessional is to get off the
bus and stand at the bottom of the steps to greet the child and parent prior to
loading. If a child has to cross the street to board, the paraprofessional is to cross the
street and accompany the student to the bus door. Follow the child up the steps to
assist as needed and to assure the child's safety.
This is an opportune time to check if the parent wishes to relay any
information to you such as seizure activity, a difficult morning, asthma attack,
etc. These should not be discussed in front of the child and should be kept as
brief as possible.
When the bus arrives at the school to unload, the bus paraprofessional should stand
outside the door to assist and assure the children's safety when they descend the
steps. Again this is an opportune time to pass information to school staff. Keep in
mind not to convey information in front of a child that could escalate the situation if
behavior is the issue. If privacy is needed, signal staff to step to the side.
When the bus returns the child to their designated stop
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Wheelchair Do’s and Don’ts
DO’s:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
REMEMBER: The passenger’s safety always comes first.
Always check the equipment for wear or possible defects.
First secure the wheelchair, then the passenger.
Don’t skip the straps—use all available securement equipment.
Each chair and each child is different—one adjustment does not fit all.
Create a securement check list and check each step every time.
Double check all straps to make sure that they are attached, buckled and
secured properly.
Keep a web cutter on board for emergency evacuations.
Have an evacuation plan and practice it regularly.
Research, research and research—You can never stop learning.
Don’ts:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Do not use securement straps or restraint belts if there are any defects such
as cut or fraying.
Don’t be in such a hurry that you forget a step.
Don’t ever cross securement straps, remember left to left and right to right.
Don’t allow the straps to conform or bend around any objects such as
wheels or footrests.
The lap belt should never be work over the abdominal area, over the
mobility aid armrests or with belt assembly twisted, and NEVER across
the face or neck.
Don’t store trays or other accessories where they could become projectiles
in a crash. They must be secured too.
Don’t let belts or straps become twisted.
Don’t attach straps to wheels or any detachable portion of the wheelchair.
Don’t let transportation be neglected in IEP meetings, bring issues and
concerns to your supervisor’s attention.
Don’t make alterations to any equipment you are using.
* An example of neglect to the components for securement systems is
laying them on the bus floor when not in use. This can compromise the
integrity of the equipment.
Extra Curricular Training
Our Para professional Team is being asked to meet more and more needs of the
children in our care. To assist you in meeting the requirements of offering mobile
health care, we are requiring your participation in new training as follows:
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Diastat Application: This is a medication prescribed for children that have severe
seizures so prolonged that respiratory problems may occur. Any bus with a Diastat
student on board will have a RED FOLDER placed on it at all times. This folder
contains the specific doctor's orders for that particular child. Anytime you are on a
bus with this information on it, you are to take it and familiarize yourself with that
particular student's need. A call to the dispatcher for 911 is our first course of action
for a diastat child having a (grand mal) seizure.
***These children are not to be transported unless their medication is with
t h e m . (It will usually be in their backpack. This should be checked whenever you
load this child).
Vagal Nerve Stimulator Implants (VNSI): This is an instrument that has been
surgically implanted in a person's chest, like a pacemaker. There is a magnet that is
swiped over the implant to send a signal to interrupt the seizure - It may or may not
stop the seizure. It is allowable to transport these students without the magnet.
** Anytime these seizure prone students have seizure activity during a transport to
school or home, notify school staff or the parent/guardian depending where the child
is being dropped_
Oral Suction: These children usually cannot swallow or cough on their own.
Extremely close attention should be paid to them. The bus paraprofessional should
notify the driver to pull off the road, wait for the bus to be stop completely, and then
administer the suction to clear the airway.
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ESE SEATING CHART
NAME: John Doe
11/25/97
772/123-4567
NAME: Bobby Doe
05/31/86
954/432-1987
NAME: Barbara Doe
1/04/02
561/987-4321
EMERGENCY EVACUATION
PLAN ON REVERSE SIDE.
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Parental Communication
It is very important to keep an open rapport with the children's parents. At times this
can be difficult. Our job is to be professional at all times. If you find that you are
having a problem communicating concerns or information with a parent or guardian,
notify your Area Manager immediately.
Always try to be polite and cheerful when greeting the children and parent or
guardian in the morning. No one wants to give his or her children to someone that
looks like angry, upset or put upon. This is no way to create a trust. Parents with
special needs children understand when a person gets tired or frustrated with
situations; they deal with this on a daily basis. Usually when you show them or their
children a kindness, they will try their best to help with any matters that may arise.
The same can be true with school staff. Strong lines of communication are
imperative to assuring a calm, safe transport. We rely on them to let us know if a
child has had seizures throughout their day, or an event that has really stressed the
child out. By their relaying this information to you, an opportunity is given to set a
plan in place to handle the child.
If at anytime you feel frustrated with a situation on the bus, with staff members at a
school, or with parent/guardians, always feel free to come to your Area Manager.
We are here to support you in those matters.
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Suggested ways to help handicapped students feel better about themselves are:
1. Empathize: Try to imagine how you would feel if you were the child in the
situation.
2. Be Consistent: Try to react to similar situations in similar ways very time.
3. Listen: Taking time to listen and "attend" to children lets them know you care
and value what they have to say.
4. Responding: Ignoring others works well in eliminating unwanted behaviors,
but children deserve attention when they have something to show or tell at an
appropriate time.
5. Use "I": Telling a child using the word "I" reduces threat and defensive
behavior. It switches the focus of the comment onto the speaker. Example:
Rather than "You always drop things", try. "I need you to pick that up, please.”
6. Model: Behave the way you expect others to behave. Show, don't judge.
7. Avoid Over-Praising: If a child is constantly praised using the same words, it
will cease to be convincing.
8. Recognition, such as “I like the way you went and sat down today" is specific
and helps the child realize his/her own accomplishment.
9. Think Now: Words like Always and Never and references to past and future
events can be put-downs.
10. Avoid Comparisons: Saying another person is just like someone else
(bad) or that they SHOULD be different hurts self-esteem.
11. Be Human: Show children that you have faults and need help at times.
12. Reward: Show your pleasure when your student has achieved or done anything
well. If the job is poorly done, apply constructive, gentle criticism.
13. Show Positive Spirit: If you are happy, healthy, in control, show goodhumor and feel very good to be alive, liking yourself is the strongest
remedy for low self-esteem in others around you.
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ABBREVIATIONS
EMH
EDUCABLE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED
TMH
TRAINABLE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED
PMH
PROFOUNDLY MENTALLY HANDICAPPED
PI
PHYSICALLY IMPAIRED
PT
PHYSICAL THREAPY
OT
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
SPL
SPEECH / LANGUAGE THRAPY
HI
HEARING IMPAIRED
VI
VISUALLY IMPAIRED
EH
EMOTIONALLY HANDICAPPED
SLD
SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITIES
GIF
GIFTED
HH
HOMEBOUND / HOPSITALIZED
SED
SEVERELY EMOTIONALLY DISTURBED
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TRANSPORTING THE EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT
Exceptional student classification / General characteristics
 EMH
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
- EDUCABLE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED
A slower understanding of what is taught in the classroom.
A slower understanding of what is taught in unfamiliar situations.
Slower acceptance of social responsibility.
Slower adjustments to daily situations.
Shorter attention spans.
Low tolerance for any frustrations.
Difficulty in adjusting from one situation to another.
Limited language usage and development.
 TMH
o
o
o
- TRAINABLE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED
Have difficulty both in listening and understanding what is said.
Have difficulty in verbally expressing themselves.
TMH students can learn to cooperate on the bus by learning to follow
simple and repeated rules.
 PMH - PROFOUNDLY MENTALLY HANDICAPPED
o Do not understand much of what is going on in their environment.
o Respond to smiles and kind words.
o Will be in some type of assistive device.
o Often not able to talk and may have other medical problems in addition
to their mental handicap.
o Often PMH students will require special assistive devices to ensure
their safety on the bus and will need care similar to that given to an
infant child.
 PI - PHYSICALLY IMPAIRED
o Have a variety of physical conditions which make it necessary for them
to use special equipment for mobility.
o They may or may not be intellectually slower than other students their
age.
o Some PI students may have been born with their impairments while
others are due to illness or accident. These students may require lifting
or assistance in walking while on the bus. They may have crutches,
braces or other assistive devices which the attendant will have to be
familiar with.
 AU/AUT - AUTISTIC
o The autistic child is one who has a limited ability to understand,
communicate, learn and participate in social relationships.
o They may:
 Show a limited ability to learn, understand and participate in
social relationships.
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Have sever temper tantrums.
Hurt others or themselves.
Appear, in some areas of development mentally impaired.
Demonstrate abnormal movements of the body and objects,
(rocking, slapping, twirling, throwing, darting, and tip-toeing).
 Repeat sounds, echoing and mimicking.
o It is very important that the bus attendant understand the basic
characteristics of the autistic child. Each individual child is as different
from the other as night is to day. Once a line of positive and open
communications has been established, then the relationship between the
attendant and the child becomes easier, thereby making the bus ride
much more enjoyable.
EH - EMOTIONALLY HANDICAPPED
o Use obscene language.
o Use obscene gestures.
o Become belligerent and physical
o Most EH students will respond to firm, clear and consistent requests,
but not demands. Many of these students are under medical
supervision.
SEH - SEVERELY EMOTIONALLY HANDICAPPED
o The SHE student is similar to the EH student but much more severe.
They have a greater tendency toward extreme behavior. Can be violent
or withdrawn. These students’ problems are well established over a
longer period of time related to the student’s behavior patterns.
o Unpredictable Behavior may be from use or lack of proper medication.
o Because the SED student has a tendency toward violence, it is
imperative the bus attendant be aware of any unusual signs of agitation.
DOWN’S SYNDROME
o Children have slanted eyes, the bridge of the nose is flattened, and mouth is
held open because of large protruding tongue. The hands are short with broad
fingers, there is a wide space between the first and second toe. About 35%
have heart problems. They are also very susceptible to Leukemia.
MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY
o A muscle weakness and atrophy that begins in the hands and spreads to
the forearms and legs. Life expectancy depends on the type of
dystrophy.
SPINA BIFIDA
o A DEFECTIVE SLOSURE OF THE VERTEBRAL COLUMN. There
are varying degrees of Spina Bifida. It is commonly seen in the
lumbar, thoracic or sacral region of the spine and extends for three to
six vertebral segments. The body is slow to develop below the affected
region and paralysis usually includes the bladder, bowels and legs.
AUTISM










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o A syndrome of early childhood characterized by lack of meaningful
affective contact with the environment and a retarded cognitive
development, especially of language. Changes of routine can cause
anxiety and rage. Some enjoy rocking back and forth, chewing, etc.
They usually are very hyperactive.
 HYDROCEPHALUS
o A condition caused by excessive spinal fluid in the head. The head is
abnormally large. The children have shunts (tubes) to reduce the
pressure. The shunts are put into the head, go down behind the ear,
through the neck and drain into the abdomen.
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Exceptional Student Management.
 Suggested management techniques for the EMH.
o Simple and clear instructions.
o Use patience while repeating rules daily.
o Establish a daily routine.
o Make sure individuals have the capacity to understand the rules.
o Communicate at the functioning level of the student.
o Reward appropriate behavior with attention and praise.
o Have seating charts.
o Create a non-threatening environment on the bus.
o Use social reinforcements, smile and wink.
o Use other students as models i.e., praise others for good sitting – make
sure the misbehaved student hears, when they sit, praise them.
 Suggested management techniques for the TMH.
o Establish a daily routine.
o Communicate at the functioning level of the student.
o Reward appropriate behavior with attention and praise.
o Have seating charts.
o Use social reinforcement, smile and wink.
o Use other students as models.
o Use simple and clear instructions.
 Suggested management techniques for the PMH.
o Establish a daily routine.
o Minimize the number of bus rules as much as safety permits.
o Communicate at the functioning level of the student.
o Have seating charts.
o Reward appropriate behavior with attention and praise.
o Use social reinforcement, smile and wink.
o Use other students as models i.e., praise others for good sitting – make
sure the misbehaved student hears, when they sit, praise them.
o Set up a contract with the students.
o Keep your sense of humor.
 Suggested management techniques for the Visually Impaired (VI)
o Talk about the same things you would with any other child.
o Help only when it is requested. Offer to help but wait for an okay, and
do not be offended if the person declines.
o Communicate effectively with students by using their first name
frequently.
o Encourage the students to discuss what is happening in their lives.
Show an interest in them.
o Be patient; let the child with the disability set the pace of walking.
o Stop over-protective and over solicitous actions.
 Suggested management techniques for the Hearing Impaired (HI).
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Face the child when talking.
Don’t exaggerate your speech.
Talk about the same things you would with any other child.
Reinforce the students for following the rules. Tell them when they do
right things, not just wrong ones.
o Be consistent.
o Use social reinforcements, smile and wink.
o Make sure the individuals have capacity to understand the rules.
o Have seating charges.
o Create a non-threatening environment on the bus.
o Communicate through written notes if necessary.
 Suggested management techniques for the Severe Emotionally Handicapped
(SEH).
o Use soft, relaxing verbal commands.
o Keep separated from other students as much as possible.
o Reinforce appropriate behavior.
o Establish a daily routine.
o Have seating charts.
o Minimize the number of bus rules as much as safety permits.
o Handle problems consistently.
o Create a non-threatening environment on the bus.
o Stop misbehavior in time (stop the act before you become angry and
lose control).
o Show an interest in the students.
o Deal with the situation as calmly and as quickly as possible.
 Social Lessons – Suggested management techniques for students
with common learning opportunities.
o When you have a student that:
 Tattles:
• Help them get legitimate approval. Never make use of
their tattling (unless is a safety issue).
• Realize that they are trying to gain approval by leaguing
up with an adult against a peer.
• Help them get your approval through their own actions.
• Ignore the tattling and praise them when they place
themselves in a “helping” situation with other children.
 Is a poor looser:
• Be realistic in your demands.
• Stress competition and comparison less, and emphasize
personal progress more.
 Brags:
• Help them build what ever strength they may possess.
Like them for themselves, value them for what and who
they are, not for their pseudo-accomplishments.
o
o
o
o
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 Is a bully:
• Help them to acquire skills needed to cope with peers.
• Help them acquire the social skills needed for making
friends.
 That lies and is sneaky:
• Do not argue.
• Do not try to corner them until they admit the truth.
• Tell them what results are expected.
• Leave the means up to them.
• Encourage and verbally reward honesty.
 That is shy and/or fearful:
• Help them in any small way to feel that they can do
anything “under their own steam.”
• Provide opportunity for them to express themselves.
• Encourage interaction and friendship with the child’s
peers.
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The School Board of St. Lucie County, Florida
Transportation Department
325 N.W. Commerce Park Drive
Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986
(561) 3 40- 71 20 • Fax: (561) 340.7134
October 23, 2003
To: All Transportation Employees
From: Donald Carter, Director
Re: Clarification of Unauthorized Riders
There has been recent discussion about and resulting research into the liability issue of
unauthorized riders on school board buses. The following policy will define who may or
may not ride our school buses at anytime, the date this policy will begin, and the
resulting disciplinary measures that will occur if policy is not followed. Please see your
Area Manager or me if you have any questions.
Effective November 1, 2003 all riders on a SLCSB bus must be at least one of the
following:
1) Students enrolled in SLC schools.
2) Transportation employees.
3) School administrators in the event of a discipline issue.
4) Authorized adult chaperones in the event of a field trip.
This is to be followed at anytime throughout every day.
While in the past, release forms were approved for employees to transport their nonschool aged children, our insurance carrier has informed us this is no longer an
acceptable practice due to liability reasons. Therefore, if this type of transport is in place
at this time, alternative arrangements must be made by October 31, 2003.
Thank you for your cooperation.
A progressive discipline plan has also been determined in the event of non-compliance. If you find
you are unable to make alternative arrangements for your non-school aged child, please go to the
Personnel Office to discuss finding a different position within the District that is more suitable for
you and your child's scheduling needs.
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