Safe or unsafe
Telling strangers on the bus where you are going
Unsafe--you do not know strangers and they do not need that information.
What is an orca card?
An orca card is a bus pass. You load money on it and you use it to pay for your bus fare.
You want to know what time your bus is coming. How do you find out?
Look it up on an app like one bus away or on google maps.
Where should I sit on the bus?
With my group, as close to the front as possible.
Why do people pay to take the bus?
The bus fare pays the driver and pays for gas. (Students ride free because metro got a grant, which means someone already paid for our rides.)
Eating on the bus
Unsafe--not only could you choke, it is not allowed.
What is a PCA?
PCA is a personal care assistant. It allows a person with a disability to have a caregiver on the bus with them for free.
Someone is acting strange on the bus.
Ignore them. If they are close to you, move your seat when it is safe to do so.
Where should I keep food on the bus?
Put away in my backpack
Why do I need headphones if I listen to music?
So it does not disturb other riders. Because it is the rule on the bus and I can be asked to leave if I do not follow it.
Sitting in a seat near the front of the bus
Safe--you are near the driver and can ask for help if needed.
What is a transfer? When would you ask for one?
If you pay with cash, you ask for a transfer when you get on. It lets you take the next bus for free.
My group gets off without me and I am still on the bus.
Let the driver know you are a Kent School District student and you got separated from your group leader. Stay on the bus. Get help from the driver to contact TOP. Or call TOP yourself if you are able.
Where should I keep my bag?
In my lap or right at my feet
Why should I not talk to strangers on the bus?
Because I do not know if they are safe or unsafe
Letting someone on the bus borrow your phone.
Unsafe--if you do not know the person, do not interact with them.
What does "pull the cord" mean?
If you pull the cord, you are telling the driver you want to get off at the next stop.
My bus is running behind and I am feeling anxious.
Check the bus app to see when it is expected to arrive. Use self-regulation strategies such as positive self-talk, deep breathing, or a fidget.
Where should I keep my phone?
The safest place is put away in your bag or pocket.
Why should I check the bus schedule?
To see where and what time a bus arrives.
Correcting another person on the bus who is not following the rules
Unsafe--we do not correct strangers.
What is "One Bus Away?"
One Bus Away is an app that tells you what time the bus is coming and what buses are nearby.
I see someone on the bus with a weapon or using drugs.
Tell the driver and your group leader.
Where on the bus do I touch to tell the driver I want off?
To the cord by the window
Why should I listen to the driver?
Because their job is to keep the bus safe. They are the boss of the bus. They ask people to do things to protect every one on the bus and keep it running smoothly.