Pomperaug Elementary School

Pupils' behavior while waiting for the school buses and riding on them is of continual concern because of the potential for injury caused by inappropriate bus behavior. The recommendations which follow have been developed in the interest of the safety of all pupils.

WAITING FOR SCHOOL BUSES AND BOARDING:

Children should be at the bus stops on time and should start early enough so that running to catch the bus is unnecessary. While at the bus stop, children should stand and wait in safe areas, not running into, or playing in the streets. They should not push, shove, fight, or engage in other disorderly behavior. Private property at the bus stop should be respected. As a bus approaches, children should form a line and wait until the bus comes to a full stop before boarding.

RIDING THE BUS:

The bus driver is fully occupied driving the bus and alert to traffic, pedestrians, and other hazards. Therefore, it is particularly important that children abide by the following specific rules of safety and courtesy:

• The driver is the boss of the buss. Follow his/her directions.
• Pupils must remain seated while the bus is in motion. They should not change seats.
• No indecent or profane language shall be permitted on the bus nor shall there be any rowdy behavior or loud talking.
• Food shall not be eaten on the bus.
• Pets will not be permitted on the bus.
• Unnecessary talking with the driver is prohibited.
• Throwing of objects on the bus is strictly prohibited.
• Pupils must not at any time extend their arms or heads out of the bus window.
• Bus windows shall not be opened without the consent of the driver.
• Pupils shall assist in keeping the bus clean, sanitary and orderly and shall refrain from abusing the bus, its cushions, or other equipment.
• Upon entering or leaving the bus, pupils shall avoid crowding or in any way disturbing others.
• No pupil shall leave the bus without permission from proper school authorities, except at his or her designated stop.
• Pupils shall enter and leave the bus only by the front door except in case of emergency.
• When seated, pupils must at all times keep their feet out of the aisles of the bus.
• The driver is in charge of the bus and can assign seats.

Sanctions:

Any pupil who violates these regulations will be given a warning then reported to the principal by the bus driver.

Pupils who repeatedly commit violations and are written up three times will be suspended from the bus for a period of time. Parents will then have the full responsibility for assuring that pupils arrive at school on time.

LEAVING THE BUS AND GOING HOME:

Crossing the road is the most dangerous time. Traffic should stop, but don't depend on it.

Pupils should get off promptly as soon as the bus comes to a full stop. They should cross in FRONT of the bus, away from the bumper so that they can be seen by the driver. The children should stop and wait until the driver gives the signal to cross, then DOUBLE CHECK both ways themselves, to make sure. They should walk across quickly and not stop, run or turn back. If something is dropped, they should leave it until they can get someone to help pick it up. If pupils have to walk beside the bus after getting off, they should keep well away from it. If they can touch the side of the bus, they are TOO CLOSE.