The Madison Public Schools has designed and implemented the bus routes based on the Board of Education transportation policy and guidelines. Each route has been assessed and tested in our effort to make our transportation system as safe and efficient as possible. Transportation via school buses is a privilege, and students of all ages are requested and expected to observe appropriate safety and conduct rules to remain eligible for transportation services. Therefore, students are expected to know and follow bus behavior rules per the following:
Before boarding the bus, students should . . .
Arrive at their designated stop at least five minutes prior to their scheduled pick up. The transportation company will not send another bus to pick up a student if he or she misses the bus because of tardiness to the stop. Students should be careful in the loading area and wait in an orderly manner. Avoid "horseplay" and stay out of the street while waiting for the bus to arrive.
Approach the bus entrance in a single line, only after the bus has come to a complete stop. Pushing and shoving other students while boarding or exiting the bus creates a safety issue for all students and will not be allowed.
All provisions of the MPS Code of Conduct apply to students when being transported by the transportation services company. Violations of the MPS Code of Conduct while on a school bus will be referred to the appropriate school administrator for disciplinary action. Conduct violations may result in a temporary or possibly permanent loss of a student's transportation privileges.
After boarding the bus, students should . . .
Obey the bus driver's directions. Go to the closest available seat or to the assigned seat and stay seated until the bus arrives at the destination. The bus driver may assign a student a seat, if in their judgment that would be in the best interest of student safety. Speak in a "classroom" voice. Loud speech or laughter causes distractions for the bus driver. Rough-housing or horseplay on the school bus will not be allowed and may result disciplinary action that may include loss of transportation privileges. Keep the bus litter free. No food or drinks may be consumed on the bus. Some exceptions may be approved by the school administrator per the terms of the Board of Education policy. Remember that school buses are property of Durham School Services. If a student causes any damage to or vandalizes a bus, the student and the parent / guardian will be financially responsible, and discipline action that may include loss of transportation privileges may occur. Never throw an object inside or out of the school bus. Keep feet, hands, and head inside the bus at all times. Observe the rules of good conduct and show courtesy to everyone. The use of foul language, rude gestures, or malicious behavior toward the bus driver, fellow passengers, or another motorist will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary action which may include loss of transportation privileges.
Remember items which are not prohibited on school grounds and in schools may not be taken on a MPS school bus, including, but not limited to, alcohol, tobacco, drugs, or weapons.
After leaving the school bus, students should . . .
If you live on the right side (bus exit side) of the street, exit the bus and walk in the area where you can be seen by the bus driver. If you live on the left side of the street (across the street from the bus), leave the bus and walk about 15 feet in front of the bus. Watch for the driver's signal that is "clear" beyond the left front fender of the bus. Stop and look in both directions to see if it is safe to proceed across the street. Never cross the street behind the school bus.
For safety purposes, students may ride only their assigned bus, and students will only be dropped off at their assigned stop.
