EEB - Student Transportation Policy - Routing and Scheduling

File: EEB
Student Transportation Policy - Routing and Scheduling
 
PHILOSOPHY OF ROUTING AND SCHEDULING
GeneralIn planning a student transportation system, bus company officials will consider related factors, including, but not limited to, operating buses, scheduling trips, adopting rules and regulations for loading and unloading students, handling special requests for transportation, providing effective intercommunication in the district, and determining policies for student control on the buses. 
 
Scheduling and routing will be planned so all students authorized to be transported are accommodated safely, efficiently, and on time.
 
Maximum Loads for BusesBuses will be assigned to routes to make maximum utilization of bus capacity.  The maximum load on buses may not exceed the posted seating capacity of the bus.
 
Bus Stops The bus company will be responsible for locating bus stops at points where students can be loaded and discharged safely and conveniently.  Students may be required to walk to certain designated bus stops located at intervals along the route.  The maximum walking distance to bus stops will be one-half mile or less.  The bus company will assist in developing list of bus routesand stops by the first week of August.
 
Travel between Home and Bus StopSchool staff and bus officials will instruct students about bus safety at least three times per year.
 
Loading and Unloading Buses will not unload before the school building is open and adequate staff members are on duty.  The unloading times will be provided to the contractor.
 
LEGAL REF.:     M.G.L. 71:68
               
REF:              Transportation Contract
                      Student Handbooks
                      Bus Company Handbook/Practices  
 
CROSS REF:      EEA
Reviewed, revised:      2/9/10; 2/24/10
Accepted by the School Committee  3/9/10
Reviewed; revised; adopted by School Committee:  2/28/23