The deterrent to school bus accidents is preparedness. Training programs for drivers and mechanics, equipment specifications, and a community support base are some of the ways to prevent tragedy. (MLF)

The school bus alert monitor is a computerized school bus alert and warning sytem that notifies parents of school bus arrival via radio frequency technology. The system also has been shown to enhance the self esteem of disabled transportation users. (CL)

Describes a computer program, developed for an Ohio school system, that monitors school bus repair and maintenance records. (MD)

The change from gasoline power to compressed natural gas for 34 school buses in Bentonville (Arkansas) has saved the school district money, reduced its maintenance needs, and increased bus safety. (MLF)

Outlines a sample contract that a district might want to use if its buses are required for emergency use by local government. The contract addresses such areas as who drives, whether regular school bus regulations are observed, who pays for the fuel, and what the costs are to the user. (IRT)

Describes the arrangements that allowed the Lake Placid Olympic Organizing Committee to hire school buses to rescue the transportation system at the winter games in Lake Placid (New York). (IRT)

Management training programs are a necessity for transportation supervisors. Basic and advanced training programs are available through associations for business officials and university fleet management training programs. (MLF)

Analyses of school bus accidents point to five accident-producing categories: (1) rear-end collisions; (2) sideswipes; (3) backing; (4) right turns; and (5) loading/unloading students. Reviews an accident of each type and focuses on the corrective action needed to reduce these accidents. (MLF)

This special section on student transportation offers a case study of a school system that recycles buses for safety drills; articles on fuel-saving strategies, the pros and cons of contracting for transportation services or operating a publicly owned bus fleet, and advice on full cost accounting for transportation costs; and a transportation…

As a school bus comes to a halt on a busy street, the driver swings out the vehicle's stop arm and turns on flashing red lights. Most drivers know what those signals mean--they are required by law to stop their vehicles so that children can safely cross the thoroughfare. However, many drivers simply choose to ignore the law. Thousands of…

Intended to be used as part of the existing school bus driver training program in New York State, the guide sets forth responsibilities and suggestions for transporting students with handicapping conditions. School district and BOCES (Board of Cooperative Educational Services) responsibilities for transportation are outlined. General guidelines…

Unfortunately, many elementary schools today are not equipped with an art room. In addition, thousands of elementary school children complete the first six years of their formal education without the benefit of a qualified art teacher. The project described is one small step toward educating the "whole" child. It features the Artmobile,…

Discusses areas that have provided the bulk of negligence claims against public school districts while transporting students: (1) bus stop locations, (2) duration of responsibility, (3) school bus boarding supervision, (4) driving a bus negligently, (5) driver violations, and (6) inadequate supervision during transit. Appended are 19 notes. (MLF)