Winston-Dillard School District 116

Code: EEAC

Adopted: 5/7/97

Revised/Readopted: 7/10/02

Revised/Readopted: 5/25/05

Revised/Readopted: 4/11/07

School Bus Safety Program

The superintendent will ensure instruction for all students in school bus safety and emergency evacuation procedures is provided. Drivers shall assist in the instruction. The following types of instruction will be given:

1. Emergency evacuation through available emergency exits;

2. Safe operation of windows;

3. Awareness and knowledge of posted bus safety rules and regulations;

4. Location and proper use of fire extinguishers.

Students who are regularly transported by the district will be provided such 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.

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 of age 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 properly 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.

An accident review board will study accidents involving district buses and will make recommendations to avoid similar accidents.

END OF POLICY

Legal Reference(s):

^{^[1]} “Proper fit” means the lap belt of the safety belt or safety harness is positioned low across the thighs and the shoulder belt is positioned over the collarbone and away from the neck.