Page 28 - School Bus Operators and Attendants Handbook

school Bus Driver. The doctor might be able to prescribe a different medication for your illness
that would allow you to work.
 Use of a cell phones, or other wireless communication device while operating a school bus is
grounds for termination as per School District Policy 3.29.
 Cell phones while driving or while on-duty in the presence of students is strictly prohibited
 A job-related emergency may allow you to pull safely off the road and then make the phone call.
 Cell phones are to be turned off and never utilized while buses are in the fuel islands.

Safety at Bus Stops, on the Road, Loading, Unloading

Anything that could shift on impact or sudden stops should be securely fastened, should not block
the aisle or exits, and should never be higher than the lowest window level.

Never move or drive the school bus if:

 The passenger door or emergency doors are open
 Any student is standing or not safely seated
 Any student is seated in the aisle, stepwell, or on top of a seatback
 You have more than legal passenger limits and never more than three (3) persons to a seat,
provided they fit.
 Loose items, such as books, backpacks, or musical instruments are in the aisle or stepwell.
 Live animals are present with the exception of pre-approved service animals
 Helium balloons are present
 There are extra-large musical instruments or boxes, or
 Unauthorized passengers.

Backing up the Bus

Generally speaking, Bus Drivers should not attempt to back up, except in the following
circumstances:

 An unusual circumstance such as being behind a stalled vehicle on school grounds and only with
assistance of an adult – never a student.
 Parking in the Facility
Backing up the bus is one of the major causes of accidents.
Think of G.O.A.L.: get-out-and-look prior to backing up.

If circumstances require backing, the Bus Driver should exercise discretions in executing the
following backing procedure. In all cases, the Bus Driver shall be held accountable for the
consequences of backing.
 Thoroughly check the area around and behind the bus. It is strongly recommended that you get
out and make a visual inspection before backing the bus.
 Obtain help from an adult when possible. Ask the adult to stand a safe distance behind the bus in
view of your side view mirror; and signal you back

Page 28 of 149
School Bus Safety, Schedules and Routes