Transportation—rules to keep students safe

More than 2,100 students travel to Central Valley Schools and home each day. Some ride the bus, some walk, and some travel by car. Regardless of how students travel, our district is committed to keeping every student safe. For this reason, we follow these policies and guidelines:

Bus riders

A bus is an extension of school grounds. Students are expected to follow bus rules and follow the driver’s instructions. Our drivers attend routine trainings to ensure they understand the rules of the road, student health and safety concerns, and school expectations for employees and students. Our drivers undergo random drug testing, further protecting our students.

Central Valley CSD Bus Policies

  • Students are required to ride only their assigned bus and to board and disembark at their assigned bus stop.

  • A parent or legal guardian must submit a written request to the student’s school to change a student’s assigned bus stop.

  • Parents must contact the student’s school in the event an emergency that requires a change in routine transportation.

  • The bus driver has full responsibility and authority for the safety of students while they are being transported on the bus.

  • Parents may not remove a student from a bus, after the student has boarded, without the approval of a school representative and proper identification.

  • Parents may not accompany their children on the bus to or from school.

  • Parents are responsible for damages to the school bus if caused by their children. Students may be issued a bus suspension until damages are paid in full to the district.

  • The driver may assign seats for elementary, middle and high school students.

  • Only items that can be held in the student’s lap may be transported on the bus.

  • No animals of any kind are allowed on the bus at any time.

  • Items not permitted at school may not be transported on the bus.

  • Students will be issued a referral by the bus driver for any infractions of the rules. If the referral results in a bus suspension, this DOES NOT excuse your child from attending school.

Bus safety

  • Remain away from traffic while waiting for the bus. This includes roads, alleys, and driveways.

  • Line up away from the street or road as the bus approaches.

  • Do not enter the road or approach the bus until the bus comes to a complete stop and the driver signals it is safe.

  • If crossing the road, always walk in front of the bus and only when the driver signals it is safe.

  • Approach only the bus door, never the sides or rear of the bus.

  • Use the handrail, especially on snowy or wet days when the steps may be slippery.

  • Speak quietly and remain seated and facing forward throughout the trip.

  • Do not reach out the window or throw anything out of the window.

  • Keep the aisles clear.

  • Gather belongings before reaching your stop. Remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop.

  • Listen to and obey the bus driver.

Bus stop safety

  • Remain away from traffic while waiting for the bus. This includes roads, alleys, and driveways.

  • Remember all school rules for good behavior apply. Fighting and bullying are prohibited.

  • Parents and property owners are asked to keep sidewalks clear of snow or debris. This includes removing snowbanks that might prevent children from safely accessing the bus.

Walkers

  • Remain on sidewalks if available. If not, walk as far onto the shoulder as possible. Always walk facing traffic.

  • Stay alert, watching for cars, especially at side streets and driveways.

  • Watch out for younger walkers who may not pay attention.

  • Wear brightly colored or reflective outer clothing, especially in winter or on dark and rainy days.

  • Wear weather-appropriate clothing, including coats, hats, and gloves in cold weather.

  • Keep your hands free; carry only what will fit comfortably in a backpack.

  • Obey crossing guards or other safety officials.

  • Arrive at school only during appointed times.

Car riders

  • Arrive at school only during appointed start times.

  • Obey traffic laws.

  • Load and unload passengers quickly and in designated areas only.

  • Do not block other cars or buses.

  • Park or wait only in designated areas.

  • Student drivers must have a school-issued parking permit and may park in student parking only.