Code: EEAC
Adopted: 8-14-06
Revised: 10/22/07
School Bus Safety Program
The superintendent or designee will ensure instruction for all students in school bus safety and emergency evacuation procedures is provided. Drivers shall assist in the instruction.
Students who are regularly transported by the district shall receive the following instruction within the first six weeks of each half of the school year. Students who are not regularly transported by the district will be given instruction at least once in the first half of each school year. The district will document and maintain records of the content and dates of instruction.
1. Safe school bus riding procedures, including but not limited to loading, unloading, crossing, etc.
2. Use of emergency exits; and
3. Planned and orderly evacuation of the school bus in case of emergency, including participation in actual evacuation drills.
Buses will not exceed vehicle design capacity for seating at any time unless an unforeseen or unusual circumstance arises. Passengers will be provided a seat that fully supports them. A seat that fully supports each person and meets the minimum standards and specifications of law will be provided at all times. A person who is under four years or weighs 40 pounds or less must be properly secured with a child safety system that meets the minimum standards and specifications established by the Department of Transportation under ORS 815.055. A person who is at least four years of age and under six years of age or weighs between 40 and 60 pounds must be properly secured with a child safety system that elevates the person so that a safety belt or safety harness fits the person.1 In accordance with ORS 811.210 and 811.215 vehicles used for student transportation in excess of 10,000 pounds are exempt from this requirement unless they have been equipped with lap belts. Vehicles in excess of 10,000 pounds that have been equipped with lap belts must meet child car seat requirements as set forth in law.
During adverse weather conditions, the superintendent may alter bus schedules or temporarily suspend bus services. The superintendent or his/her designee will advise local radio stations and other media of any changes in bus schedules or services.
In the case of emergency or disaster, evacuation of students will be carried out according to the district’s emergency plan.
The District Safety Committee will study accidents involving district buses and will make recommendations to avoid similar accidents.
END OF POLICY
Legal Reference(s):
ORS 811.210
ORS 811.215
ORS 815.055
ORS 815.080
ORS 820.100 - 820.190
OAR 437-002-0220 to -0227
OAR 581-022-1420
OAR 581-053-0002 to -0015
OAR 581-053-0512 to -0550
OAR 735-102-0010