1. Bus drivers have delegated to them responsibility for maintaining proper discipline on their bus.
2. Pupil behavior problems, which develop on the bus, will be referred to the principal for disciplinary action.
3. The principal will counsel and work with pupils who have been referred by the driver in much the same way that he/she works with classroom referrals.
4. After the parents have been advised that a pupil has been a disciplinary problem on a bus, the principal may remove a pupil from the bus for a short period of time. If behavior problems persist, the principal may remove a pupil from the bus permanently. Parents are to be notified in writing and provided an opportunity for a hearing on a matter with the principal.
5. In general, the bus driver is not authorized to remove pupils from the bus; however, in serious circumstances when a pupil is endangering the safety of other riders, an offender may be ejected immediately. If such action is taken, the driver must notify parents or authorities.
6. The principal is responsible to inform pupils and parents of the following state school regulations, which relate to bus safety and behavior:
        a. The driver is in charge of the pupils and the bus. Pupils must obey the driver promptly and cheerfully.
        b. Each pupil must be provided a seat assigned by the driver.
        c. Pupils must be on time; the bus cannot wait for those who are tardy. Pupils must walk on far left side of road facing traffic when going to bus stop.
        d. Pupils must wait for the bus off the traveled portion of the road. Pupils should wait in an orderly manner.
        e. Unnecessary conversation with the driver is prohibited. Pupils must not distract the driver's attention; their safety is in his/her hands.
        f. Ordinary conversation is permitted on the bus; otherwise, classroom conduct is to be observed.
        g. Pupils should assist in keeping buses clean and sanitary at all times.
        h. Pupils must not at any time extend arms or head through bus windows.
        i. Pupils must not try to get on or off the bus or move about within the bus while it is motion.
        j. When leaving bus, pupils must observe directions of driver. When crossing the road, pupils are advised to do so in front of the bus after making sure street is clear.
        k. Any damage to a bus is to be reported immediately to the driver.
        l. During inclement weather, pupils who ride buses are to listen to their home radio for information concerning bus operations.
        m. Assessment of penalty for violating rules will be the principal's responsibility.
7. The services of the Transportation Field Services staff are available to the principal in resolving school bus related disciplinary problems. This individual, working within the authority of the principal, will provide assistance by working with individual cases, arranging for contacts with parents, and performing similar services.

Administrative Responsibility: Transportation Services
Latest Revision Date: March 1999
Previous Revision Date: August 1996