Providence Creek Academy

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Student Transportation Mission Statement …………………………………………………………3 Welcome Letter ……………………………………………………………………………………..4 Requirements for Employment ……………………………………………………………………..5 Requirements for Training a New School Bus Driver …………………………...... 5-6 School Bus Driver Requirements for PCA ………………………………………...... 6 Driver & the Public …………………………………………………………………………………6 Drug Testing ……………………………………………………………………...... 6-7 Drug Testing Negative Result ………………………………………………………………………7 Prescription Medication ……………………………………………………………………………7 Over the Counter Medication ………………………………………………………………………7 Carrying Prescription Medication on bus for Students …………………………………………….8 Over the Counter Medication ………………………………………………………………………8 Profanity/Vulgarity …………………………………………………………………………………8 Smoking …………………………………………………………………………………………….8 Confidentiality ……………………………………………………………………………………...9 Personal Appearance ………………………………………………………………………………..9 Unscheduled Physical Examinations ……………………………………………………………….9 Scheduled Physical Examinations ………………………………………………………………….9 Assigned Seating ………………………………………………………………………………..9-10 Attendance ………………………………………………………………………………………...10 Time Sheets ………………………………………………………………………………………..10 Bus Routes ……………………………………………………………………………………..10-11 Loading & Unloading on the Roadway ………………………………………...... 11-12 School Loading & Unloading Zone ……………………………………………………………12-13 Student Drop Off Policy ……………………………………………………………………….13-14 Cleanliness ……………………………………………………………………...... 14-15 Safety Procedures …………………………………………………………………………………15 Railroad Crossings ………………………………………………………………………………..16 Pre-Trip Inspection ………………………………………………………………...... 17 Post Trip Inspection ………………………………………………………………...... 17 Maintenance ………………………………………………………………………...... 17 Fueling the Bus ……………………………………………………………………...... 18 Physical Violence …………………………………………………………………...... 18 Emergency Procedures for Unauthorized Person(s) …………………………...... 18-19 Cell Phone Policy ………………………………………………………………...... 19 Title 21 Section 4176B – Cell phone use by school bus drivers; penalties ……………………...19 Do’s and Don’ts for Bus Driver Regarding Discipline ………………………………………19-20 Employee Discipline Guideline ……………………………………………………………...21-24 Break Down Procedures ……………………………………………………………………..25-28 Accident & Emergency Procedures (Contingency Plans) …………………………………...29-30 Transportation Contingency Plans …………………………………………………………...30-32 School Bus Evacuation Practice Procedures …………………………………………………33-36 Weather Contingency Plans ………………………………………………………………….37-40

2 Student Transportation Mission Statement

“Together as a team we make a difference”

PCA Transportation will strive to safeguard our students; your children to professionally and efficiently provide a safe, clean and reliable student transportation.

We ask that every bus driver support the above mission statements through their daily efforts to be the best bus driver that they can be.

We Practice safe procedures every time we are behind the wheel!!!

3 Transportation Department

273 West Duck Creek Road

Clayton, DE 19938

Office (302) 653-6276 ext: 118 Fax (302) 653-7850

Dear School Bus Driver,

Welcome to Providence Creek Academy Transportation Team. Bus drivers are the first ones to greet; the last ones to say goodnight to our students, which makes you the most visible representation of the School. You are part of a team who provide safe and pleasant transportation for the students in our care. I am confident that your professionalism will have a positive influence on our students.

The School Bus Driver Handbook is designed to assist you. The handbook references information pertinent to your assignment as a school bus driver for Providence Creek Academy. You are personally responsible for knowing and following policies, procedures, rules and regulations.

I am proud to be part of the Providence Creek Academy Transportation Department Team and I am proud to have you join our team. May we look forward to many productive years ahead for us all!!

Sincerely,

Belinda L. Hestera Supervisor of Transportation

Being a school bus driver is a very rewarding and important position requiring your constant attention as well as diplomacy, tact, and a full measure of driving skill. It also requires a complete knowledge of the rules and regulations and a deep feeling of personal responsibility for the well being and safety of the students.

Considering the importance of your job and the responsibility to the students entrusted in your care, the administration, thanks you in advance for your careful driving and compliance with all School, State rules and regulations.

4 REQUIREMENTS FOR EMPLOYMENT

Pre-Employment

 Application turned in to Transportation Department  Interview conduction with the Transportation Supervisor  CDL with P Q Endorsements  Copy of Driving Record  Department of Education 12-Hour class in basic school bus driver/aide training.  Child Protective Registry registration.  Pre-employment Drug Test.  Criminal History Record Check Authorization Form and get Fingerprinted.  Return fingerprint receipt to Transportation.  School Bus driver/aide affidavit  Physical Form  TB test results from a physician stating you can not take the test and are clear of TB.  A green physical card.  6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction from a Certified Driver Trainer.

New Hires:

 Every new driver will have a 90 trial period, during this time new drivers must: o Not be tardy o Not miss any days o Control their bus of students o Not have any accidents o Obey all state laws o Abide by Providence Creek Academy, procedures of The Bus Drivers Handbook. o Transportation Supervisor will evaluate new drivers during their 90 day period.

REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAINING A NEW SCHOOL BUS DRIVER

 Be at least 18 years of age with 1 year driving experience.  Can qualify for a CDL license with P (passenger) endorsement. 5  Not have more than 5 points on the applicant’s driving record at the time of application.  Not have had the applicant’s license suspended, revoked or disqualified in this State or any other jurisdiction for moving violations in the last 5 years.  Copy of Driving Record for at least 5 years from Department of Motor Vehicle.  Never have been convicted of any of the following crimes under the laws of this State or of any other jurisdiction: o Any crime constituting the manufacture, delivery or possession of a controlled substance or a counterfeit controlled substance classified as such in Schedule I, II, III, IV, or V of Chapter 47 of Title 16; o Any crime against a child; o Any crime constituting a class A or B felony; o Any crime constituting a felony homicide, including, but not limited to, murder, manslaughter and vehicular homicide; o Any crime constituting a felony sexual offense; o Any crime constituting a felony offense against public administration involving bribery, improper influence or abuse of office; or o Any crime, other than those listed in this paragraph, constituting a felony for which the person has not been pardoned or for which less than 5 years have passed since the person fully discharged all imposed sentences. As used herein, the term “sentence” includes, but is not limited to, all periods of modification of a sentence, probation, parole or suspension, and all forms of fines, restitution or community service.

 Be able to pass a pre-employment drug test.

School Bus Driver Requirements for PCA

Driver & the public

Positive attitude and friendly reaction to students and adults will make a big contribution to the schools ability to create a positive image. You are the first & last one the students see from the school; let them see a smiling, happy, caring bus driver. Your driving habits, abilities, appearance and overall attitude are constantly evaluated by the people you meet. Remember, your school bus is a reflection of Providence Creek Academy, as well as a moving billboard advertising the School.

Drug Testing

Throughout the year, all drivers and substitutes will be subject to random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, and follow-up drug and alcohol testing.

 Drug Testing will be done ONLY at Quest Diagnostics  Random drug testing is done throughout the year, even through the summer months.  Driver must go immediately to Quest Diagnostics once a Chain of Custody form is handed to them.  Post-Accident drug testing will be conducted immediately after accident and all statements are given. o Driver will be unable to drive a school bus, until a negative result is given from Advantage Care. 6 o Driver will not be paid while Transportation Supervisor is waiting for the drug test result. o Transportation Supervisor will contact driver once results are received. o Any Positive drug results, the driver must be notified in writing by the Transportation Supervisor, as pursuant to Title 14 Education Delaware Administrative Code Regulation 1105 Transportation 24.5 Part 24.5.5.

“Positive Result” means a verified positive, adulterated, or substituted drug test result, an alcohol test result equal to or greater than the Federal standard or a refusal to take a drug or alcohol test as defined by the provisions of 49 U.S.C. 31306, 49 CFR Part 382 and 49 CFR Part 40.

NOTE: The date you are notified with random drug or alcohol notification, you must go directly to Quest Diagnostics, after your regular a.m. route (no exceptions). If a test is positive, or refusal to submit to a drug or alcohol test, the following procedures will apply.

Drug Testing Negative Result:

1. The Transportation Department Supervisor will immediately remove the driver from driving the School Bus. a. During a morning or afternoon run, the Transportation Supervisor will call on radio to have you stop & wait for Supervisor to get to your destination. b. Upon arrival the Transportation Supervisor will take over driving the School Bus. c. Upon arrival back to school the driver will be asked to report to Transportation Supervisors office. d. Transportation Supervisor will then explain the circumstances of drug/alcohol result & driver will then be terminated from Providence Creek Academy.

Prescription Medication:

2. The Transportation Department Supervisor must be aware of any medication prescribed by a physician. a. Driver must notify their physician that they drive a school bus with students. b. Driver must read & obey all side effects including, but not limited to, alertness, cause drowsiness, or unsafe side effects. c. Prohibited medications include, but not limited to, amphetamines, barbiturates, or narcotics. d. Driver must ask their physician if it is safe to drive a school bus while taking any questionable medication. e. Driver must bring in written notification from physician stating it is okay for the driver to drive a school bus while on the prescription medication.

Over the Counter Medication:

3. Drivers taking over the counter medication must read all warning labels & be sure you can operate a school bus safely & efficiently. a. Do not take medication that may cause drowsiness, dizziness etc. before driving a school bus b. Drivers must adhere to warning labels on over the counter medication. 7 Carrying Prescription Medication on bus for Students:

No driver will carry prescription medication on the school bus for students unless:

 Principal prior approves  Once principal approves: o Parent must hand prescription medication to the bus driver o If a student has the prescription medication, the driver must tell the student to get the parent/guardian to give the medication to the bus driver. o Bus driver must carry the prescription medication o Bus driver must give prescription medication to administration, once they arrive to school. o If parent has already left the bus stop the driver may bring the medication to school & give to administration.

Over The Counter Medication:

Bus driver may carry over the counter medication if:

 Parent hands the bus driver the medication  Bus driver must keep in possession of medication, until the arrival to school, where they will give the medication to administration.  If a student has medication, the driver must tell the student to get the parent/guardian to give the medication to the bus driver.  If parent/guardian has already left the bus stop, the driver will take the medication and deliver it to administration.

Profanity/Vulgarity:

 Bus Drivers will not use profane or vulgar language while in the presence of students, on school property in the vicinity of children and adults, or otherwise representing Providence Creek Academy. Profane or vulgar language in the presence of fellow employees may be the basis of grounds for a formal complaint of harassment in the workplace.

o Transportation Supervisor will investigate any & all formal complaints put in for the use of profanity/vulgar language.

Smoking:

The use of tobacco is prohibited anywhere at anytime on district property and/or vehicles.

 Drivers that smoke will not smoke on the school bus before, during or after a route run or field trip.

8  Transportation Supervisor will investigate any & all complaints put in for the use of, but not limited to, smoking, smell of smoke on any school bus.

Confidentiality:

School bus drivers may acquire knowledge of a sensitive matters concerning, but not limited to, teachers, students, PCA staff, student’s family or student handicapping conditions. Any and all knowledge will be kept confidential & will not be discussed with anyone except the Transportation Supervisor.

 Transportation Supervisor will advise the bus drivers on students that ride their bus, about the discipline the student received for misbehaving on the bus.  Bus drivers are not to discuss the discipline of any student, to the student, in front of other students, teachers etc. only to the Transportation Supervisor.

Personal Appearance:

A driver who looks neat and professional at all times projects a better image than the overly casual or sloppy dresser. Looking professional gives the driver a better chance of commanding the needed respect of your students, parents, teachers & administration.

Unscheduled Physical Examinations:

Children’s lives are in your hands, the Transportation Supervisor, Managing Director or Principal, may require you to take and pass a physical examination at any time during the school year, if it appears that you may not meet the minimum physical requirements of the job.

Scheduled Physical Examinations:

All school bus drivers are required to have a physical exam once per year.

1. Physical Exams must be done on the Delaware School Bus Driver Physical Examination form only. No other form will be accepted. 2. Physicals must be completed before the old one runs out. Physicals are good for 1 year. 3. Drivers will not be permitted to drive a school bus until Physical is completed by a physician and turned in to the Transportation Supervisor. NO EXCEPTIONS 4. Physicals are the drivers’ responsibility to know when they run out & to schedule a physical exam with their physician, before the expiration date. 5. Physicals are at the expense of the driver.

Assigned Seating:

Drivers will assign each student to a seat. The students will be responsible for any damage to the seats, bus walls, and windows. Assigned seating will help eliminate behavior problems, any damage to seats, consistency in loading and unloading, and safety factors.

9  Drivers will assign all students a seat within 2 weeks after school starts.  Drivers will fill out the assigned seating chart & hand in to Transportation Supervisor.  A new seating chart will need to be filled out anytime student/students are moved.  Students will be arranged from front to back Kindergarten to 8th grade.

Attendance:

The safe transportation of students to and from school each day is one of the most serious responsibilities of school bus drivers. With the acceptance of this responsibility goes the understanding that the assigned route is always covered in a responsible manner; thus, attendance is a critical factor in a drivers’ job performance.

1. The Transportation Supervisor needs adequate notice to arrange for a substitute to drive your route. a. Must call by 5:30 AM - 1:00 PM / 302-399-0898 2. A complete set of route directions should be available at all times on the bus. a. Any changes to the route description must be made in writing to the Transportation Supervisor & approved before any changes are made. 3. Requests for personal leave must be submitted in advance and approved by the Transportation Supervisor. 4. Driver will fill out an absent from work form & turn form in with regular time sheet. 5. Continual poor attendance and / or lateness will result in disciplinary action. 6. Drivers are required to be at work 15 minutes before scheduled leave time. This will allow time for the pre-trip inspection, any new instructions from Transportation. 7. Lateness is the same as poor attendance and will not be tolerated. If a driver is continually late, that driver may be sent home without pay plus face disciplinary action including but not limited to: written warnings, 1 – 5 day suspension without pay, termination.

Time Sheets:

 Drivers are responsible for turning in the time sheets on the due date. (Usually Friday Morning, before the first run).  Time sheets have the due date on the top.  Time sheets must be completely filled out with time in, time out for am & pm, and the total hours. o Time sheets not completely filled out will be returned to the driver.  Time sheets not turned in on the due date will not be submitted to payroll, driver will not be paid until next pay date.

Bus Routes:

Transportation Supervisor will schedule the bus routes & stops. All drivers will adhere to a set time schedule for their route. Never attempt to “make up” time by taking short-cuts in your pre-trip inspection or by speeding/driving recklessly. Never start a route earlier then time set to finish the route sooner.

1. Drivers will receive there route sheets at least 2 weeks before school starts. 2. Drivers will run the route for AM & PM and get estimated times for pick up & drop off. 10 3. Turn AM & PM estimated times in to Transportation Supervisor. 4. Drivers will call each & every parent the week before school to notify them of pick up time, drop off time & location. (NO EXCEPTIONS) 5. End of 2nd week of school turn in times for AM & PM. (This should be ample time for you to know exactly when you will be at a bus stop). 6. If there is a problem with a stop when you are driving to get your routes down, notify Transportation Supervisor. 7. A bus should never run a route earlier than the scheduled time. 8. A bus will slow down with the yellows on & look for a student. 9. Never ride by a stop without slowing down. 10. Drivers shall not be required to wait for pupils unless they can be seen making an effort to reach the bus stop. Delaware Administrative Code Section 9.0 Part 9.3 11. Once a bus has departed a stop at the designated time, it must proceed to the next scheduled stop before picking up students. Safety factors prohibit drivers from making unscheduled stops to pick up latecomers. 12. Students that do not ride your bus, but are at the bus stop in the morning may ride your bus to school. 13. Students cannot ride another bus home without a note signed by the Transportation Supervisor. 14. Only stop at designated stops. 15. Bus Routes can only be changed by the Transportation Supervisor. 16. Driver needs to notify the Transportation Supervisor of any changes needed. Supervisor will investigate & if necessary will change the route. 17. All drivers will keep an updated copy of their route description on their bus, for substitutes.

Loading & Unloading on the Roadway:

 Students must have definite places to board and exit the bus.  Students will not be allowed to leave the bus at any place other than regular stops without written permission from their parents, guardians or relative caregiver and approval by the Transportation Supervisor.  Buses will be brought to a full stop and properly positioned before students are allowed to board and exit the bus.  When stopped for the purpose of receiving or discharging students, the bus will always be stopped on the right side of the road and as far off the paved or main traveled portion of the highway as the condition of the shoulder permits and parallel to the main traveled portion of the highway.  All loading and unloading of students will be made from the service door.  The rear exit door is not to be used except in cases of emergency or emergency drills.  Students who cross the road to board the bus or after leaving the bus shall cross at a distance in front of the bus and beyond the crossing control arms so as to be clearly seen by the driver and only upon an audible clearance by the driver.  The driver will cross the students using the external speaker of the public address system.  The doors of the bus shall be kept closed and in the latched position while the bus is in motion.

11  Bus stops on roadways with three or more lanes (with oncoming traffic) must be made on the right side of the road.  Students will not be required to cross more than two lanes of traffic when entering or leaving the bus.  On the bus route every effort should be made to load students before a turn around is made and unload them after the turn around is made.

School Loading & Unloading Zone:

Unloading:

 A school bus driver should approach a school-loading zone with extreme caution.  The driver should always keep the door closed until the bus is at the curbside and students are orderly and ready to unload in a safe manner.  The driver must always secure the bus when unloading students on school grounds. This includes: parking brake on, transmission in neutral & engine shut down.  The driver must never back the bus on school grounds.  An unloaded bus must be checked for sleeping students & items left by students.  Do not move your bus after unloading, until Transportation Supervisor, Principal, or other school official, using the two-way radio tells you to do so.  Drivers should exit the unloading zone with extreme caution & must follow the speed limit on school grounds.  Remember there are children, parents, teachers, faculty & administration walking/driving on school property. Approach school loading zone with CAUTION!!

Loading:

 Driver must be on the bus before students may get on the bus.  If you leave your bus you must take the key out of the ignition & take it with you.  Bus must be in neutral, parking brake set & motor turned off. 12  Drivers start pulling around to the school at 3:10 pm.  Buses will be in numeric order when pulling around to the school loading zone.  The bus must never back the bus on school grounds.  Transportation Supervisor will dismiss one bus at a time starting at 3:35 pm.

Student School Bus Drop Off Policy:

Providence Creek Academy requires a parent/guardian or designees to meet their child/children at their assigned bus stop each day for the following groups of children:

 Any student below the age of 12 years old.

Drivers:  Must use the two-way radio, to let the supervisor know the child’s parent/guardian or designee is not at the stop.  Drivers will bring the child back to school.  Once driver is coming up the driveway, use the two-way radio to inform the supervisor, so they can come get the child from the bus.  Parent/guardian or designee may meet the bus in the driveway if: o They have identification or the driver knows who they are.

Parents/guardians, who have designees picking up their child/children from the assigned bus stop, must have:

 Designee form filed with Transportation Supervisor.  The designee must show identification to the bus driver.  If the designee does not have identification the child/children will not be released to the designee.

Older Siblings:

 Siblings 12 years old or above: o May walk their younger sibling home. o If older sibling is not riding the bus a parent/guardian or designee must meet the child/children at the assigned bus stop.

(Note: Parents may fill out, sign & return the Walk Home Form to the Transportation Department, for students to walk home without a parent/guardian or designee at the assigned bus stop; this does not include Hub Stops).

Hub Stops Policy:

Hub Stops are, but not limited to: parking lots, etc.

 Every child will need a parent/guardian or designee to pick up their child/children.  Absolutely no child/children will walk from a hub stop.  Car pooling is allowed on the following conditions: o Designee form is filed with the Transportation Supervisor.

13 o Only the designees listed on the Designee Form will be allowed to pick up your child/children. o Designees must bring their identification to show the bus driver, before the child/children will be released to the designee. o The child will not be released to any designee without identification.

Failure of a parent/guardian or designee to meet their child as identified above at their assigned bus stop will result in the following action:

 Child/Children will be returned to Providence Creek Academy, & taken to after care.  Child/Children will be charged for after care services. o Failure to pay for after care services will result in loss of transportation privileges.  The parent/guardian will be responsible for picking the child/children up at the school’s after care program.  Subsequent Offenses: The parent will receive a warning indicating additional offenses may result in termination of transportation.  Repeated Offenses: May result in temporary or permanent loss of transportation services, along with a referral to the Division of Family Services.

Every Providence Creek Academy student who is eligible will be assigned one bus and one bus stop according to Delaware State Law. Any changes in bus stops are to be considered permanent changes and will have a (5 day processing time). The reason for the length of time is to notify drivers and to update bus listings. Please keep in mind that this is for the safety of your child. Please beware that when your child is riding the bus to or from school there is a 10 minute plus (+) or minus (-) pick up time. This means that if your child’s stop is at 6:35 a.m., the child should be at the bus stop no later than 6:25 a.m. or as late as 6:45 a.m. for the morning pick up. Depending on traffic, road conditions, construction, etc. The bus may be there by 6:25 a.m. or as late as 6:45 a.m. If your child’s stop is at 4:00 p.m., the parent/guardian or designee should be at the bus stop no later than 3:50 p.m. Depending on traffic, road conditions, construction, etc. the bus may be there by 3:50 p.m. or as late as 4:10 p.m. Please make sure that your child is at their bus stop on time, the bus will not wait. Please make sure you as the parent/guardian or the designee are at the bus stop on time, the bus will not wait.

Students must ride the bus they are assigned by transportation. Parents should not plan on their child riding a different bus for short-term sitter arrangements, parent appointments, music lessons, grandparents, a friend’s house, etc.

Cleanliness:

 A clean bus is a safe bus.  Drivers must sweep there bus as necessary as needed. There should not be any paper, pencils, candy, etc. on floor, in seats, this is a safety issue. Students could get hit by flying articles, especially when the windows are down.  Wipe down the seats, dash, steering wheel, dash, control panels.  Drivers are responsible to wash their bus before school starts at the beginning of the year, before the weather turns cold, once the weather turns warm again in the spring.  Drivers are NOT permitted to sweep articles out the doors of the bus!!! Use a trash can. Keep the bus yard clean.

A CLEAN BUS IS A SAFE & HEALTHY BUS

You, as a school bus driver, are responsible for the transporting of children safely from their home area to school in the morning and returning the students to the same location in the afternoon.

YOUR PRIMARY CONCERN MUST ALWAYS BE THE SAFETY OF YOUR PASSENGERS!!!

Traffic laws are the rules of the road; when you obey them you are driving on safe ground. When you ignore them you are taking an unnecessary risk that can endanger your life and the lives of your passengers, a risk that can make you responsible for accidents, blemish your driving record, cause death, and lead to jail.

Driving a school bus is a public trust. Other motorists observe the way you drive, so do the parents & students you transport.

DON’T LET THIS BE YOU!! DRIVE SAFELY & OBEY THE LAW!! 15 Railroad Crossings

If convicted of a Railroad-Highway Grade Crossing violation in a CMV, your CDL will be disqualified for no less than 60 days for the first offense. Your CDL will be disqualified for no less than 120 days for a second offense within any three year period. Your CDL will be disqualified for no less than 1 year for a third offense within any three- year period.

 School bus must stop at all Railroad Crossings.  When you can visually see the railroad pre-warning sign (round yellow circle with R X R), or the white block with railroad sign, begin to slow down.  Activate four-way hazard flashers. DO NOT activate the yellow flashers for school children.  Bring the bus to a complete stop at a distance of 15 to 50 feet from the nearest track.  Shift to neutral, turn off fan, radio and instruct students to be silent.  Open the side window & door to enhance hearing and visibility.  If the track is clear, close the door and proceed through the crossing.

Any driver who does NOT stop at a Railroad Crossing will be Terminated Immediately!!

Railroad Crossing Procedures for flashing lights & no train:

All school bus drivers must stop as indicated above & then:

1. Contact the Transportation Supervisor, let them know the lights are flashing at the R/R Crossing but there is no train. 2. Supervisor will then have you cross the R/R tracks. 3. Supervisor will contact persons to fix lights.

Railroad Crossing with crossing guards:

1. Contact the Transportation Supervisor, let them know the crossing guards are down & lights are flashing. 2. Supervisor will instruct you to remain there. 3. Supervisor will contact persons to fix.

ALWAYS STOP FOR R/R CROSSINGS – IT’S THE LAW!!

QUIET STUDENTS - STOP – LOOK – LISTEN – CROSS W/CAUTION

SAFETY IS ALWAYS FIRST

16 Pre-Trip Inspection:

 Drivers must conduct a pre-trip before every run.  Drivers must allow 15 minutes to conduct the pre-trip inspection.  Daily pre-trip inspection report must be in hand during inspection. o Drivers must check each of the following: o Front of Bus Hazards Tires/Wheels o Hood Latches R/L Turn Signal Batteries o Windshields Warning Yellow / Reds Muffler Exhaust o Mirrors Mirror Arms Strobe o Engine Cracks in Mirrors Fuel Cap/Tank o Fluid Leaks Body of Bus Fuel Leaks o Lights Stop Arm Service Door o Running Lights Air Valves Emergency Exits/Buzzers o Seat Adjustment Interior Lights PA System In/Out o Seat Belt Monitor Box Horn o Parking Brake Hand Rails o Transmission Selector Secure Seats o Gauges Tears/Marks Seats o Windshield Wipers Safety Equipment/ First Aid/Body Fluids/Triangles

Once a complete pre-trip has been conducted & everything is in working order, you may proceed on your route. If there is a problem with the pre-trip inspection advise the Transportation Supervisor immediately. All pre-trip inspections forms are due every Friday. All forms are to be placed in the mailbox just outside the fence in the bus yard.

Post Trip Inspections:

 Everything listed above in pre-trip  Drivers must check the entire inside of bus for sleeping students, torn/written on seats, trash, students articles left behind.  All lights are turned off inside & out.  All doors are closed.  Parking brake is engaged.  Transmission is in neutral. Remember show you care – check your bus!!!

Maintenance:

 When a repair needs to be done on your bus you must fill out a Repair Request Sheet. o Once a repair request sheet is filled out & turned in, the Supervisor will call them in to the mechanic or the Transportation Supervisor will fix the items. o No items will be repaired until a Repair Request Sheet is completely filled out.  The driver is to report any repairs to be done, to the Transportation Supervisor.  The driver(s) must not report any problems with the bus to the mechanic.

17 Fueling the Bus:

 Drivers should not let there fuel tanks get below a ¼ tank.  Drivers are to use the Fuelman Card in each bus.  Drivers will receive there own pin number. The pin number should not be shared with any other driver/person. The pin numbers are how the Transportation Supervisor keeps track of each person using the cards.  A list of fuelman stations will be given to each driver. Drivers may only use a station that accepts fuelman cards.  The cards are NOT to be used for personal use or for gasoline, DIESEL ONLY.  The cards are to stay on the bus they are assigned to, each card as a number on it to match the bus number.  Driver must receive a receipt for the fuel & turn in the receipt every Friday (or last day of the week), in the envelopes provided by Transportation.  NEVER FUEL WITH PASSENGERS ON THE BUS!!!  Running out of Fuel on a route, field trip etc. is grounds for termination.

Physical Violence:

 The bus driver should bring the bus to a halt in a safe location, verbally tell the students to break it up.  Call 911 & have the police remove the students.  Notify the Transportation Supervisor.  Remain at the location until police & supervisor arrive.  Write down a detailed description of incident, plus the names of any witnesses.

Emergency Procedures for Unauthorized Person(s):

1. Politely ask the person(s) not to get on the school bus for safety matters. 2. Person(s) refuse Call 911. 3. Contact Transportation Supervisor. 4. Person(s) standing in front of bus either at a designated stop or on school grounds, the driver must: a. Close all windows, doors, blow the horn at any person(s) trying to stop the bus when not a designated stop. b. Driver will not open the door to any strangers, parents, guardians, siblings when not at a designated stop. c. Call 911 d. Call Transportation Supervisor.

ABSOLUTELY NO PERSON(S) ARE ALLOWED TO BOARD A SCHOOL BUS OTHER THAN:

 School Bus Driver  Students  School Administration 18  Teachers  Transportation Supervisor  Police Officers

Cell Phone:

Drivers are not permitted to use a cell phone while driving a school bus.

 In an emergency the driver must pull off at a safe location only to contact: o Transportation Supervisor o School Administration if Supervisor does not answer. o 911

If a complaint is brought to the Transportation Supervisor:

1. Supervisor will investigate 2. Driver found to use cell phone during driver will face disciplinary action. a. Written Warning b. 2 Day Suspension without Pay c. 5 Day Suspension without Pay d. Termination

Title 21

Section 4176B. Cell phone use by school bus drivers; penalties.

a. No driver shall operate a school bus on any highway while using a cell telephone while such vehicle is in motion and such vehicle is transporting 1 or more children; provided, that this section shall not apply to communications made to and from a central dispatch, school transportation department or its equivalent when the bus is not equipped with a functioning 2-way radio b. For the purposes of this section, “cell telephone” means a cellular, analog, wireless or digital telephone. c. Whoever violates this section shall for the 1st offense be fined not less than $50 nor more than $100. For each subsequent offense be fined not less than $100 nor more than $200 and shall have that person’s school bus endorsement removed from that person’s driver’s license for a period of at least 6 months. d. It is an affirmative defense to prosecution under this section tat the driver’s use of a cell telephone was necessitated by a bona fide emergency.

Summary of Do’s and Don’ts for Bus Driver Regarding Discipline:

A School Bus Driver must have patience and care for children. Children know when you do not care and you will never gain their respect.

19 Listed below are several DO’S and DON’TS which should help you with problems of discipline:

DO’S

1. Always be courteous to your students. 2. Always control your temper. 3. Act the part of a person in a responsible position, conscious of your important job. You are a professional! 4. Do everything possible to inform pupils that they themselves have important responsibilities in ensuring group safety. 5. Spot the few troublemakers and seat them near you, within your vision & hearing. 6. Be firm, but kind.

DON’TS

1. Don’t be too familiar with students. 2. Don’t be too lenient at first. 3. Don’t make “wisecracks.” 4. Don’t threaten, shout or argue. 5. Don’t create issues that must be settled later. 6. Don’t assume everything is all right. 7. Don’t fail to seek immediate assistance if students are being injured due to a fight you are unable to stop.

Bus Drivers, who don’t follow the rules, have no control!!!

This is not how a bus should ride down the road!!

Always have control over all situations with students!!!

The following rules are promulgated for the guidance of all pupil transportation employees. The Board of Education reserves the right to discipline employees for these and other offenses not listed herein.

OFFENSE 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 1. Reporting to Termination work under the influence of alcohol or drugs (non prescription).

2. Careless Written Warning Suspension 5 days Termination driving with a w/o pay loaded or unloaded school vehicle, i.e., speeding, and other motor vehicle violations.

3. Failure to Written Warning Suspension 5 days Termination follow inclement w/o pay weather, hazardous road conditions procedures

4. Overloading a Written Warning Suspension w/o Termination vehicle pay with review

5. Backing vehicle Written Warning Suspension 3 days Termination on school ground w/o pay when students are present.

6. Driver’s Termination for 3 License years. suspension.

7. Failure to Suspension 5 days Termination follow published w/o pay collision procedures

21 OFFENSE 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 8. Failure to Oral warning in Written warning Suspension 3 days Termination follow vehicular writing w/o pay break-down procedures

9. Unauthorized Written Notice Suspension 3 days Termination stops and routes. w/o pay 10. Missing a Run Written Warning Suspension 1 day Suspension 3 days Termination w/o pay w/o pay

11. Running out Written Warning Suspension 1 day Suspension 3 days Termination of fuel w/o pay w/o pay 12. Tardy for Will be docked Will be docked & Will be docked & Termination Work Time/Written 1 day Suspension Suspension 3 days Warning w/o pay w/o pay

13. Written Warning Termination Insubordination 14. Unreported Oral Warning in Written Warning Suspension 3 Days Termination Discipline Writing w/o Pay Problem

15. Unreported Oral warning in Written Warning Suspension 3 days Termination incidents. writing w/o pay

16. Unclean Oral warning in Written warning Suspension 3 days Termination Vehicle inside or writing w/o pay out

17. Failure to Suspension w/o complete physical pay until requirements completed

18. Smoking Written Warning Suspension 3 days Termination while driving or w/o pay smoking in vehicle loaded or empty

19. Eating while Oral warning in Written warning Suspension 3 days Termination driving writing w/o pay

20. Unreported Oral warning in Written warning Suspension 3 days Termination maintenance writing w/o pay problems 22 21. Failure to Written Warning Suspension 3 Termination perform a vehicle days w/o pay inspection before using vehicle 22. Failure to Oral warning in Written Warning Suspension 3 Termination perform a post writing days w/o pay inspection.

23. Using vehicle Written Warning Suspension 5 Termination for personal use days w/o pay

24. Lack of Oral warning in Written Warning Suspension 3 Termination required paper writing days w/o pay work

25. Disrespectful Written Warning Suspension 3 Termination attitude days w/o pay (administration, staff, student) 26. Falsifying Termination records (i.e. application, driving record, physical)

27. Refusal to Written Warning Suspension 3 Termination attend mandatory days w/o pay meeting.

28. Striking a Termination student

29. Immoral Termination conduct, unbecoming conduct of indecency

30. Unauthorized Written Warning Suspension 3 Termination passenger in days w/o pay vehicle

23 31. Unattended Oral warning in Written warning Suspension 3 days Termination vehicle, key in writing w/o pay ignition

32. Unattended Written Warning Suspension 3 days Termination vehicle, engine w/o pay running

33. Vehicle Oral warning in Written warning Suspension 3 days Termination security, i.e. writing w/o pay windows open, door open, emergency equipment missing 34. Leaving a Termination student on the bus

35. Not stopping Termination for a railroad crossing

36. Rear end Termination Collision

37. Fighting with Termination other employee

38. Unauthorized Oral warning in Written warning Suspension 3 days Termination use of cell phone writing w/o pay while driving

24 Break Down Procedures

Driver must contact transportation supervisor and give location of break down, if any students are on the bus, & if you are in a safe location. Transportation Supervisor will send a bus to location.

When Parked at the Side of the Road. When you pull off the road and stop, be sure to turn on the four-way emergency flashers, this is important at night. Don’t trust the taillights to give warning. Drivers have crashed into the rear of a parked vehicle because they thought It was moving normally. If you must stop on a road or the shoulder of any road, you must put out your emergency warning devices within ten minutes. Place your Warning devices at the following locations:

• If you stop on a two-lane road carrying traffic in both Directions or on an undivided highway, place warning devices Within ten feet of the front or rear corners to mark the location Of the vehicle and 100 feet behind and ahead of the vehicle, On the shoulder or in the lane you stopped in. (See Figure 2- 8.)

• Back beyond any hill, curve, or other obstruction that prevents Other drivers from seeing the vehicle within 500 feet. (See When putting out the triangles, hold them between yourself and the oncoming traffic for your own safety. (So other drivers can see you.)

Use Your Horn When Needed. Your horn can let others know you’re there. It can help to avoid a crash. However, it can startle others and could be dangerous when used unnecessarily.

25 Figure 2-8 Warning Device Placement: Two Lane (traffic in both Directions) or Undivided Highway Figure

26 Figure 2-9 Warning Device Placement: Obstructed View

27 Figure 2-10

Warning Device Placement: One Way or Divided Highway

No school bus driver expects or wants to be involved in an accident. However, accidents do occur, and when that happens the driver’s first obligation is always to his/her passengers.

An ACCIDENT PACKET is provided for each bus and should be kept on the bus at all times. The packet does include 1 each of the following;

 Accident Report Form  Telephone Card  Witness Card  Passenger List Form (Assigned Seating Chart)

It is your legal responsibility to have:

 Your driver’s license  Your green card

The following procedures should always be observed when an accident occurs, no matter how minor it may seem:

1. The driver should check immediately to determine if anyone is injured. 2. The police must be contacted, no matter how minor the accident. The driver should radio into the Transportation Supervisor, the location and nature of the accident, even if the driver of the other vehicle does so. 3. If students are injured or claim to be injured the driver should share that with the 911 call placed. 4. A complete list of the students’ names, addresses and telephone numbers should be written on the Passenger List Form. 29 5. Students should remain on the bus unless doing so would endanger them. 6. The driver should protect the accident scene as much as possible. Emergency triangles should be placed 100 feet to the front and rear of the bus. The vehicle should be moved to a safer location if failure to do so would create a dangerous traffic hazard and endanger the safety of students and others. Inform Transportation Supervisor of the move. 7. If witnesses are present, the driver should list on the “Witness Card” any persons who may have observed the occurrence and give to the officer at the scene. 8. The driver should complete all sections of the Accident Form and submit it to the Transportation Supervisor within 24 Hours or discipline action will be taken. NO EXCEPTIONS 9. If any person is injured or killed in the accident or if either vehicle must be towed, the bus driver is charged, or involved in any accident no matter how minor or major, the driver must be tested for drugs and alcohol immediately. 10. If the driver is injured in any way, report must be filed immediately. 11. If any driver while driving a Providence Creek Academy school bus as contact with another vehicle (car, bus, truck etc.), or object (telephone pole, sign, mailbox, gas pump etc.) driver must come to the Transportation Office and fill out an accident report immediately.

Hostage Situation:

If able say: CODE YELLOW over the two-way radio and/or text my cell phone with either CY or Code Yellow.

 This will alert the Transportation Supervisor/School that a bus has a hostage situation.  The transportation supervisor/School will then call 911.  School and Transportation will work with the local & state police.

Emergency Procedures for Unauthorized Person(s):

1. Politely ask the person(s) not to get on the school bus for safety matters. 2. Person(s) refuse Call 911. 3. Contact Transportation Supervisor. 4. Person(s) standing in front of bus either at a designated stop or on school grounds must: a. Close all windows, doors, blow the horn at any person(s) trying to stop the bus when not a designated bus stop. b. Driver will not open the door to any strangers, parents, guardians, siblings when not at a designated stop. c. Call 911 d. Call Transportation Supervisor.

30 When to Evacuate

Evacuation is a very difficult situation. The driver must consider the fact that the safest place for the students may be on the school bus. In an actual emergency, the decision to evacuate the school bus is the initial step and one of the most important that the driver will have to make. That decision will initiate a chain of events to result in the safest possible situation for the passengers under the existing circumstances. The decision must be made as quickly as possible based on all the facts at hand.

Drivers will evacuate the bus if there are any of the following indications that the bus is on fire or in danger of catching fire:

1. An open flame, smoke, hot tires or any other indication of possible fire on or under the bus;

2. An object in flames or in danger of catching fire that is close enough to an immobile school bus to cause concern;

3. A combustible material or fuel susceptible to fire that is leaking from an immobile school bus or close enough to cause concern.

Disabled Bus

Evacuate the bus if it cannot be moved to a safe position and it is in

1. The path of other motor vehicles; 31 2. The path of a train or adjacent to any railroad tracks;

3. A position of inadequate visibility and in danger of being hit. In normal traffic conditions, the bus should be visible for a distance of 300 feet or more. A position over a hill or around a curve where such visibility does not exist should be considered reason for evacuation.

4. A dangerous position related to water or a sudden, extreme drop;

5. The area of a hazardous spill for which there is need to quickly evacuate to an area upwind at least 300 feet from the incident.

6. Any position that you feel puts the students in danger because of their presence on the school bus.

Bomb Threats

Upon receiving a message that a bomb threat has been planted on a school bus the following steps will be followed:  Contact Transportation Supervisor by 2-way radio/drivers cell phone  Evacuate the bus & move yourself & students to a safe distance following evacuation procedures  Transportation will call 911  The driver will remain with students until police have cleared the scene.

PRE-EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLAN

The most important part of evacuation is developing and following a plan. Having a pre- emergency plan for each school bus and its route that includes all populations of students transported will save precious time. In many emergencies, only two (2) to five (5) minutes is available to complete an evacuation before possible serious injury to students might occur. Local policies will determine when and how students are to be evacuated from a bus. School bus evacuations must be practiced with the students on school property with the school bus driver and under the supervision of the transportation supervisor, principal & administration.

School buses carry a variety of students varying in size, age and special needs.

1. Obtain a copy of a step-by-step procedure, including alternatives and special needs populations, prepared by the Transportation Supervisor and approved by Principal & School Board. 2. Make sure that students have been instructed about what to do and how to proceed. 3. Identify three assistants whom ride the bus daily, to assist if an evacuation is necessary (and during evacuation drills). (These students should be pre-identified and written permission received from parent or legal guardian for students’ participation).

Evacuation Drills

Due to the increased number of students being transported and the ever-increasing number of accidents on the highways, there is an urgent need to instruct students on how

33 to properly vacate a school bus in an emergency. It is possible for students to block the emergency door if they are all trying to get out at the same time. There is also a possibility of danger when students jump from the rear emergency door exit. To avoid these situations, Delaware requires that all bus-riding students must experience a practical school bus evacuation drill at least twice each year.

A. Such drills are to be scheduled and personally supervised by the Transportation Supervisor, Principal and/or Proper Administration. Police, rescue and fire personnel should be invited to participate in this training event so as to be prepared for a school bus emergency.

The driver should never attempt to schedule or conduct a drill on his/her own. 1. The Transportation Supervisor, Principal and/or Proper Administration will monitor the evacuation. 2. The driver must take charge of procedures and lead the students through the evacuation. 3. The types of drills should be varied:  All out front door  All out back door  ½ out back door / ½ out front door.

B. All drills are to be conducted on school property.

C. All bus-riding students including those transported on extracurricular trips must participate.

D. You may be advised that, due to a student’s condition, a student with a disability may not be required to leave or be taken from the bus.

1. Proper school officials may determine that some alternative preparations will be adequate.

2. Drivers may want to check with their supervisor if they have questions about moving any students.

E. Make sure transportation supervisor, principal or administrator has obtained parental/guardian consent before any student is assigned to assist with the evacuation. 34 F. Students will be instructed on how & where to obtain assistance in emergencies. This may be done by using the two-way radio (if power exists), using the bus drivers or students cell phones or flagging down a passing motorist to call for help. The key issue is who to call. Drivers will carry a 3 x 5 card with the following information:

1. Bus Route and bus number; 2. Telephone number for transportation office; 3. Telephone number for fire, police, ambulance; and 4. Bus drivers name

G. Students should be instructed with demonstrations of the following;

1. Location and operation of all emergency exits; 2. Location, operation, and direction on how to remove the fire extinguisher; 3. Location of the first aid kit; 4. Location and operation of the warning reflectors; 5. How to shut off the engine and set the parking brake; and 6. How to open the front door, to include safety releases on manual, air or vacuum doors if so equipped.

H. Drivers should always use extreme care during an evacuation drill. Never force a student to jump from the bus. Have the students sit & assist holding the students wrist & arm.

I. Never allow students to play around during a drill. If they won’t take the situation seriously, drivers should refer them to the proper authority for disciplinary action.

Driver Responsibility

Primarily, the school bus driver must know the subject and be able to get the message and the commands across to the passengers. The driver must know the equipment and make sure it is in good working order. Make sure the fire extinguisher is properly charged and sealed and the first aid kit has the proper units.

35 All school buses must provide at least two methods or routes of escape. With proper training, each passenger will know each available route of escape and how to operate each emergency exit.

Drivers should be leaders by being positive and sure of themselves. Appoint ride- evacuation helpers with an eye toward responsibility and good character.

36 Natural Emergencies

Natural emergencies may require evacuation.

1. Try to pull the bus off the roadway away from large trees, electrical lines, telephone and utility poles, and buildings.

2. Should evacuation be necessary, move at least 100 feet away from the side of the school bus, but do not cross the roadway unless absolutely necessary.

3. Determine the safest position for shelter from the emergency situation.

a. Remain in the bus during a blizzard if conditions allow.

b. Find a depression in the ground or an embankment away from the bus during a tornado.

c. Locate students on highest ground possible during danger of flooding.

d. Contact Transportation Supervisor, Police, Fire Company, Medical Unit as soon as possible.

37 School Closure and Delay Procedure

The decision to either delay the start of the school day, transportation services, send students home early, or close the school is made with the safety and well-being of your child in mind and the information available at the time. If it becomes necessary to close or delay the start of school, or send students home early, an announcement will be broadcast over the media. Please stay tuned to your radio or television for announcements and further information.

The emergency school closure procedures are as follows:

Delayed Starting Time:

1. The decision to delay the start of school will be communicated to the local television and radio stations by 6:00 AM. Stay tuned to any of the following stations on mornings when the weather appears inclement (snow, cold/ice, fog):

Radio Stations: WDSD-FM (94.7) – WSTW-FM (93.7) WDOV-AM (1410) – WDEL-AM (1150)

Television: WBOC-TV Channel 2 Salisbury WCAU-TV Channel 10 Philadelphia

An announcement will also be recorded on the after hours tape on the school phone (302) 653-6276.

Providence Creek Academy website: providencecreekacademy.org

Department of Education website: doe.state.de.us

2. A delayed start will begin two (2) hours later than the regular bus pickup time and school starting time. If normal bus pickup is 6:30 am, expect the bus at 8:30 am. The end of the day dismissal time remains the same.

3. If there is a two (2) hour delay, there will be no morning breakfast served. 38

4. If there is a school closure, after school and co-curricular activities will be cancelled.

5. Listen to the television and radio stations for further reports indicating whether the schools will open the two (2) hour delayed schedule or that school will be cancelled for the entire day.

Sending Students Home Early

If school does open, and weather conditions worsen during the course of the day, school may be closed early. If school were to be dismissed early, check the above media for those announcements.

Whenever road conditions allow for the buses to run safely, drivers will deliver students to the established stops. If buses cannot enter a subdivision because of road conditions, parents may meet the bus at the main roads and escort their children home. Parents may, of course, pick up their children at any time during a bad weather situation.

1. The decision to send students home early will be communicated to the local television and radio stations.

2. Parents are urged to have an “Emergency Closure Procedure” form completed and on file in the school’s main office.

a. The school will follow your instructions from the Emergency Closure Procedure form.

b. The bus delivery point will either be the regular bus stop; unless it is a subdivision, then the stop will be at the entrance of the subdivision.

c. Check the PCA website for the Bus Snow Emergency Route, the buses will use the Snow Emergency Route when weather conditions are severe.

3. If a school bus cannot proceed to delivery points due to road conditions, the students will be returned to school. Students will only be allowed to leave the bus at the regular or school approved alternative bus stop. The school will call the student’s home or the emergency contact, if the student is returned to school. It is extremely important to have a family contingency plan when a change in routine occurs. The 39 following may be helpful when school is delayed, cancelled or students are sent home early due to an emergency closure.

a. Communicate your contingency plan to your child and the school.

b. Whether the student is to ride the bus or will be picked up at school.

c. The person who will pick up the student from school or the bus stop.

d. If you leave for work before your child leaves for school, prepare now by arranging childcare with another adult in case school is delayed or cancelled.

e. Check that all members of your family know the contingency plan (where to go, who to call, etc.)

4. If students are bused home early because of closure during the school day, be sure the person meeting your child knows the delivery stop & time your child will get off the bus. 5. If students are bused home early due to snow, ice, etc. Providence Creek Academy, buses will use the emergency bus route & NOT the regular route. 6. Emergency bus routes can be found on providencecreekacademy.org

Note: Please allow extra time for buses for bad road conditions.

Drivers should drive slowly, carefully & safely on bad weather roads.

Drive Safe – The roads are covered in ice & snow!!!

Don’t let this be you!!! Drive Carefully & Slowly!!!

40 Bus Drivers Policy & Procedures for Early School Closing

When bad weather is predicted drivers will:

 Be notified by Transportation Supervisor to stay near a phone  Will be notified of the time of dismissal ASAP by transportation supervisor  Buses full of fuel

APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, MARCH 15, 2010