Enter the bus and immediately go to your assigned seat and sit down.
Talk in a normal tone of voice.
Remain in your assigned seat until time to exit the bus.
Keep head, hands, and feet inside the bus.
Use no obscene or unacceptable language or gestures.
Avoid eating or drinking in the bus; keep the bus clean.
tobacco products and other prohibited items (alcohol, drugs, weapons, pagers, radios, and laser pointers) are not allowed on the bus.
Follow all rules outlined in the District’s Student Code of Conduct, as well as safety rules established by the driver.
Buses & Drivers
There is no mistaking a school bus for anything other than a school bus. That distinctive yellow and black coloring, the stop arm, the flashing lights, are all designed to warn traffic that this special vehicle must be treated with extra respect and caution.
Besides being highly noticeable, a school bus is exceptionally well built. Construction and equipment standards for school buses are controlled by more government regulations than any other vehicle on public roadways.
There are specifications for the roof, tires, lights, mirrors, seats, safety equipment…even the number of bandages in the first-aid kit!
In addition to regular maintenance by specially trained mechanics, the State Police inspect every school bus on a yearly basis.
Not just anybody can get behind the wheel of a school bus. It takes someone quite extraordinary to control a vehicle, watch traffic and road conditions, and at the same time attempt to manage as many as 72 high spirited youngsters.
The legal requirements for becoming a school bus driver are very demanding. Drivers must be at least 21 years of age, be able to pass a DOT physical, participate in random drug and alcohol tests, possess a Commercial Drivers License, possess a State School Bus permit, have knowledge of bus equipment and maintenance and passenger safety and control as well.
40 hours of specialized training are followed by written exams and road test. Driving and criminal records are reviewed and regular medical and vision exams are required.
Every driver at Lake Central must complete certified driver improvement courses, as well as know traffic laws and safety procedures inside out. Periodic re-examinations keep the school bus driver sharp and safety-wise.
Behind the drivers and buses is a complex network of service and support people. Mechanics, dispatchers, office staff, administrators, the school board and law enforcement. Each one plays a vital role in keeping Lake Centrals buses running safely and efficiently.
Working together, these professionals decide which students are to be bused to school and where and when to pick them up. They set standards for behavior on the bus and handle discipline problems. They also research and enforce laws and regulations that govern school busing.
Finding better and safer ways to protect students is a constant challenge, one that is approached with pleasure and pride.