This article introduces a series that discusses energy-saving programs for school transportation systems and the role of school buses in local emergency transportation and local public transportation. (IRT)

Briefly describes programs that some school districts have adopted to encourage students (and, in some cases, parents and other members of the community) to use school buses for transportation rather than private cars. (IRT)

The energy crisis can be a real burden on school transportation budgets. Suggested are items in departmental budgets that should be examined. Survey responses show what a number of school districts are doing to reduce fuel consumption. (Author/MLF)

Measures public school transportation directors are taking to solve their current budget problems. (MLF)

Describes the School Bus Driver Training Project in New York. (MLF)

An Alaska elementary school developed an innovative program to reduce bus problems arising from discipline infractions and driver/student frustrations. On every first Tuesday, the principal meets with drivers to offer encouragement and training. Students earn individual and group points for good bus behavior and receive small treats from the…

Examines the characteristics of three types of motion detectors: Doppler radar, infrared, and ultrasonic wave, and how they are used on school buses to prevent students from being killed by their own school bus. Other safety devices cited are bus crossing arms and a camera monitor system. (MLF)

The recommendations of standards for school buses and their operation has been a major purpose of all the National Conferences on School Transportation since the first one in 1939. Safety and economy have served as guideposts for making decisions. Highlights from each of the conferences are cited. (MLF)

The National Transportation Safety Board has recommended retiring as unsafe all school buses made before April 1, 1977. Buses built after that date--called "poststandard buses"--are likely to be in great demand for safety, economic, and legal reasons. (MLF)

Presents the history, objectives, and guiding principles for the 12th National Standards Conference on School Transportation to be held in 1995. (MLF)

Standardized bus schedules allow a more efficient use of buses and drivers. Cites experiences of districts using the four-bell schedule where high schools open first, followed by middle schools, and then elementary schools with two opening times. A computer routing system can be used to route buses more efficiently and draw school attendance…

Describes some basic maintenance and proper preparations for changing weather that can help keep school bus operations moving. Provides advice on diesel engine usage that can lengthen engine life and maintain all weather performance is provided. (GR)

Presents observations from the director of the National Association of Pupil Transportation concerning school bus safety, seat belts, and the state of the $15-billion school transportation industry. Increasing student use of bus transportation and delivering the school bus safety message to all concerned are addressed. (GR)

Describes potential health risks of diesel exhaust fumes to students riding school buses. Suggests measures to reduce exposure. (PKP)

Public schools are responsible for providing a safe, structured environment that is conducive to learning. This requirement encompasses a variety of settings, including school bus transportation. However, limited research exists to indicate best practices for designing and implementing behavior programs for school bus transportation. The…