Student Safety
A student drops something under the bus. What should they do?
Tell the driver, do not try to retrieve it themselves.
Name 2 distractions a driver should avoid.
Cell phone use, eating, paperwork, etc.
Before moving the bus after loading students, what should you always do?
Check all mirrors, count students, and ensure everyone is clear of the bus.
What is the first priority of every school bus driver?
The safety of students and the public.
What is the first priority in any school bus emergency?
Protect the students and ensure their safety.
What is the most dangerous area around a school bus?
The "Danger Zone".
(10-30ft in front of the bus and 10-12ft around the remainder of the bus)
What should a driver do if they become ill before or during a route?
Notify dispatch immediately and follow district procedures. Never operate a bus if it is unsafe to do so.
Before students cross in front of the bus, how far should they walk ahead of the bus?
At least 10 feet in front of the bus so the driver can clearly see them.
Why should drivers avoid discussing confidential student information?
Because student information is protected and should remain confidential.
If a railroad crossing emergency occurs and the bus is stuck on the tracks, what should everyone do?
Evacuate immediately and move away from the tracks at a 45-degree angle toward the direction of an approaching train.
Name three strategies drivers can use to prevent student behavior problems before they start.
.
Establish clear expectations.
Be consistent with rules.
Greet students positively.
Build respectful relationships.
Assign seats when needed.
Should you notify dispatch if you will be significantly delayed?
Communication helps keep schools and families informed.
Why is unloading generally considered more dangerous than loading?
Students are more likely to cross the street, enter the danger zone, or become distracted after leaving the bus.
Why is arriving at bus stops on time important?
It provides consistent service and helps ensure student safety.
What should a driver do if the bus catches fire?
Stop immediately, evacuate all passengers, move everyone to a safe distance, call dispatch and do not re-enter the bus.
A student begins distracting the driver by yelling and throwing objects while the bus is in motion. What is the safest course of action?
Safely pull the bus over, secure the vehicle, address the behavior, and follow district procedures for reporting the incident.
Should you report even minor damage to your supervisor?
Report all damage promptly.
Is it safe to let a student off the bus anywhere except their designated stop?
No, the student should always get off at their designated stop.
Why should a driver avoid making unauthorized route changes?
Unauthorized changes can create safety risks and accountability issues.
What is the driver's responsibility after an emergency has ended?
Account for all students, complete required reports, cooperate with emergency responders, and follow district procedures.
Why is it important for a driver to remain calm and avoid arguing with a disruptive student, even during serious behavior issues?
The driver's primary responsibility is the safe transportation of students. Student discipline should never compromise the safe operation of the bus."
What is the number one "DO" for every school bus professional?
Always put student safety first.
During unloading, a student unexpectedly runs back toward the bus after crossing the street. What should the driver do?
Keep the bus stopped, secure the bus if necessary, maintain visual contact with the student, ensure the student is accounted for, and do not move the bus until the student is in a safe location and completely out of the danger zone.
Why is documenting incidents accurately and promptly important?
It provides an accurate record, protects everyone involved, and supports investigations.
Why should students move at least 100 feet away after evacuation?
To protect them from fire, explosions, traffic, or other hazards.