Every pupil is responsible to the principal of the school that s/he attends for his/her conduct on the
school premises or while traveling on a school bus that is owned by, or under contract to, the Board.

The Principal
1. Is responsible for supervision of all loading and unloading at the school, and will ensure that a supervisor is available to monitor loading and unloading at the school.

2. Notifies STSTB of any problems with routes:  arrivals, departures, driver performance, discipline, etc.

3. Will have knowledge of the routes and schedules of buses serving their school.  Schools must let STSTB know of additions/deletions of students to routes.

4. Investigates and resolves, in conjunction with STSTB, all reported problems on the bus.  May request
video surveillance, if necessary.

5. Informs parents/guardians of the problem and the disciplinary action that has been taken.

6. Will provide a signed note to the driver for real emergency arrangements only, if there is sufficient
room on the bus.

7. Will ensure that elementary schools have classroom instruction on school bus safety and bus evacuation drills each year. The bus operators will provide a bus and trained personnel.  Upon completion of the training, the principal will notify STSTB via email.

8. Schedules periodic meetings with drivers.  (Elementary Principals only).

9. Will inform parents/guardians and students of any rules and regulations established to ensure safety on the buses.  Ensures distribution of Transportation Instruction Booklet to new students.

10. WILL ENSURE THAT, WHEN ORDERING BUSES FOR STUDENT FIELD TRIPS, TEACHERS
ARE AWARE THAT THEIR RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

I. ordering proper size bus for number of students to be transported.

Loading Capacities
• suggested two per seat when on extended field trips on highways
• JK - 6 - three per seat
• 7 - 12 - two per seat
• Adults - two per seat

ii. Recognizing that objects that hinder the safe operation of the vehicle or the safety of the
students will not be permitted on the school bus.

iii. Ensuring that an adult supervisor accompanies the students on the bus during field trips as per member Board policy.

iv. The conduct and discipline of students on the bus.

v. Adhering to departure and return times specified with the bus company. Field trips shall not
interfere with regular school routes.

vi. Ensuring that all students have a place to sit and that no child is required to stand.

vii. Ensuring that loading and unloading of students is done in a safe place or a specific loading zone.


11. Must ensure the school has a contingency plan for the safe care of students in the event of early closure.

12. Will have knowledge of their school zone and is able to provide this information to parents when they
register. Zone maps are available for viewing on Board websites: