Adequate staffing for pupil transportation provides for the following: (1) drivers are appropriately instructed; (2) school buses meet the highest standards of construction and maintenance; (3) discipline is uniformly administered; (4) instruction in safe riding practices is provided; and (5) salary and fringe benefits retain the best qualified…

Because diesel engines are more economical and longer-lasting than gasoline engines, school districts are rapidly increasing their use of diesel buses. Dependence on diesel power, however, entails vulnerability to cost increases due to the unreliability of crude oil supplies and contributes to air pollution. (MCG)

A driver performance test revealed that school bus drivers were not adjusting the bus crossover mirrors so that all the pedestrian areas could be seen. In addition, the mirror adjustment was restricted by bracket supports. Describes mirrors that meet state vision standards and how they should be utilized. (MLF)

Describes a Missouri school district's recruiting, training, and retention strategies for school bus drivers. Includes an employer reference checklist and an applicant review form. (MLF)

A Connecticut school district initiated a bus monitor program on the elementary bus runs. Monitors are paid $8.50 per run, are subject to the same medical examinations as are drivers, and are given preemployment drug tests. Children show respect toward the monitors. The district has concluded that monitors do help in making bus stops safer for all…

An Iowa school board established a policy that included a complete ban on nonmandated school busing with the option that parents could purchase busing for their children at the full district average cost. The program has provided necessary additional revenues to prevent budget cuts in educational programs. Provides information about the…

In many states, the greatest threat to safe student transportation is elimination of the school transportation program. Using public transit buses, large vans, smaller vehicles, or specialized equipment can cause major-issue headaches. False issues include controversies over seat belts, bus design, and optional "bells and whistles." (10…

There are two basic approaches offered in current computerized transportation routing and scheduling programs: the mathematical programming approach and the intuitive optimization approach. Lists questions that an informed buyer should ask of the routing and scheduling company. (MLF)

Argues for seat belt installation on school buses and forced retirement of vehicles manufactured prior to 1977, when federal safety standards were upgraded to include compartmentalization features. Discredits a Transport Canada study for improper design and methodology used. Advises communities to examine research, consult experts, and visit…

Comparing the safety record of school buses to that of automobiles does not account for the nonschool time when automobiles are used. Experiences where seat belts are installed in school buses show that students use them, insurance is not a problem, and cost is slight. (MLF)

Areas to analyze in any evaluation of a school bus pupil transportation program are the administrator's role, operations and administration of the program, maps and map system coordination, time schedules for all schools, the recordkeeping system, the reimbursement aid formula, and specifications and bidding on transportation equipment.…

Safety audits were conducted in each of New York State's 750 school districts to help school administrators understand and comply with laws and regulations relating to the safety aspects of pupil transportation. (Author/MLF)

Examines privatization of pupil transportation and suggests that asset ownership may be separated from asset operation. Discusses the advantages of a school district owning its school buses if operation is contracted out. (MLF)

A demonstration program conducted in 12 New Jersey school districts identified 18 fuel cost-saving opportunities for school bus operation that could save the state an estimated $1.6 million in fuel costs. (MLF)

Provides a brief description of the U.S. Constitutional provisions and public laws affecting transportation of students with disabilities. Lists suggested inservice training program elements to ensure the provision of adequate training necessary to safely transport students with disabilities. (MLF)