TRANSPORTATION BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS

Our goal is to provide safe and timely bus service for the over 3,500 students who ride our buses every day.

The Bus is an extension of the classroom, and all the same behavioral rules should apply.

The transportation department uses an infraction level system to respond to violations of bus-riding rules for students of all ages. A parent or guardian will be contacted before a student receives an infraction level to discuss appropriate discipline. Infractions may accumulate over a school year. Disciplinary action is based on infraction levels; however, the Director of Transportation has discretion to assign consequences as warranted.

Our transporters are highly trained professionals who have your child's safety in mind.

Riding the school bus is a privilege, and students are expected to cooperate with their transporter to promote bus safety. A transporter or aide may confer with a student, change bus seating, assign a specific seat, reinforce student successes, and establish consequences for inappropriate bus rider behavior.

When bus-riding rules are violated, a written citation may be issued. Severe or hazardous conduct may result in a bus suspension or expulsion.

Safety First

At the bus stop:

  • Wait in line safely behind the curb until the bus stops (10 feet)
  • Keep hands and property to self
  • Load only when door opens Look to the driver/aide for directions
  • Enter in single-file line

On the bus:

  • Sit correctly
    • Seat to seat
    • Feet to floor
    • Back to back of seat
  • Stay seated at all times in your original seat
  • Ensure bodies and property are in the “safe zone” (keep aisles free)
  • Be aware of others

Be Respectful

At the bus stop:

  • Use appropriate language
  • Show respect to passing cars and people
  • Respect others’ personal space and property

On the bus:

  • Use appropriate language
  • Keep hands/feet and property to self
  • No inappropriate gestures to passing cars
  • Listen to all adults
  • Take care not to damage the bus

Be Responsible

At the bus stop:

  • Arrive at bus stop 5 minutes early and be ready to board when bus arrives
  • Report danger and emergencies to transporter
  • Be a role model for others, especially younger riders

On the bus:

  • Carry backpacks in front of you while loading and unloading
  • Support transporter; be kind
  • No eating/drinking
  • Practice self-control
  • Quietly and safely engage in activities (handheld game, book, homework, etc.) • Keep the bus clean
Infraction Levels

Minor Misconduct (Level 1)

  • Food / drink out of backpack / eating
  • Littering / Leaving trash on the bus
  • Not sitting in assigned seat
  • Not keeping hands to self
  • Public display of affection (PDA)
  • Inappropriate use of electronic devices
  • Not entering / exiting at assigned bus stop

Distractions (Level 2)

  • Yelling on the bus / out the window
  • Tampering with others’ property
  • Licking, non-direct spitting
  • Unauthorized objects (animals, toys, balloons, skateboards, scooters, etc.)
  • Excessive noise / music
  • Profanity / Inappropriate language (directed / not directed at others)
  • Disruptive behavior / not following driver instruction

Safety Issues (Level 3)

  • Not sitting properly in the seat
  • Standing / moving while bus is in motion
  • Not quiet at railroad crossing
  • Throwing objects inside the bus
  • Throwing objects outside the bus
  • Body part out of the window
  • Physical horseplay (tripping, pushing, etc.)
  • Unauthorized use of emergency exit
  • Spraying anything inside / outside / onto the bus

Misconduct (Level 4)

  • Verbal altercation
  • Theft
  • Destruction of district property on the bus
  • Intentionally spraying anything at others
  • Intentionally throwing item(s) at the driver (non-assault)
  • Intentionally spitting on someone
  • Disruptive behavior / not following driver instruction (severe enough to pull the bus over)

Severe Misconduct (Level 5)

  • Sexual behavior (sexual touching)
  • Threatening harm / physical violence
  • Indecent exposure (generally middle school & high school)
  • Physical altercation / harm to others
  • Bullying / harassment
  • Intimidation / discrimination
  • Possession or use of drugs, alcohol, vape, or any tobacco product / paraphernalia
  • Assaulting / Intentionally touching the driver
  • Dangerous weapons
  • Gang activity