Policies & Procedures : Bus Discipline & Student Transportation

The Beeville ISD Transportation Department is committed to ensuring the safety and well being of each student. Riding in a district transportation vehicle is a privilege offered to students who reside within the district. All students being transported are under the authority of the bus driver and must obey his or her requests. Procedures and safety rules help ensure the safety and protection of each student. Failure to meet these standards or follow these safety rules and procedures may result in student conflicts or injuries and also cause delays or distractions to the driver. Any student failing to follow the rules and procedures will receive a Bus Conduct Report turned in by the bus driver to the campus Principal/Transportation Director. The Principal/ Transportation Director will determine the appropriate disciplinary measure which can include temporary or permanent removal of transportation privileges. Those students who fail to abide by these rules and procedures can lose their riding privileges and will be disciplined. Parents of students who damage BISD property (including bus seats) are responsible for retribution to BISD. Any questions dealing with bus routes or problems on the bus are referred to the BISD Transportation Department at 361-362-6090.

A. Procedures and Safety Rules

While waiting to load:
1. Arrive at the stop earlier than the scheduled loading time. Remain out of the street and don't create a problem for the owner of the property where the stop is located.
2. When the bus approaches, stay away from the curb and the front wheel of the bus. Get in a line when the bus approaches. Wait until the bus has come to a complete stop, and wait for the driver's signal to cross/board.
3. Board carefully and use the handrail. Be courteous and do not push or shove. Move quickly to your assigned seat.

B. While riding:
1. Remain completely seated, facing forward, with all body parts inside the bus. Never extend arms, hands, heads, or objects through bus windows. Standing or moving from seat to seat while the bus is in motion is not allowed.
2. Respect the rights of other students. Do not violate their space, nor physically or emotionally harm them.
3. Do not participate in an event which causes the driver to be distracted from driving. Refrain from unnecessary conversation with the bus driver.
4. Store your carry-on book bags in your lap, against the wall at your seat, or in the seat designated by the driver. Never allow bags to block an exit window or any part of the aisle. In an emergency, no time is available to clear the path to safety. 
5. Obey the bus driver's requests.
6. Never throw anything while on the bus.
7. Talk in normal tones without using loud or vulgar language. Classroom conduct is expected.
8. No food and/or drink is allowed.
9. Keep the bus clean. 
10. Do not bring glass containers or animals on the bus.

C. While unloading:
1. As the bus approaches your stop, gather your belongings, but remain seated until the bus has come to a complete stop.
2. Move to the door quickly so other traffic will not be delayed. Use the handrail while descending the stairs. 
3. Step down to the ground carefully and walk directly away from the bus at least two steps before turning to the left or right. Never walk alongside the bus or anywhere within 3 feet of the rear tires.
4. If you must cross the road, move at least 15 feet in front of the bus and wait for the driver's signal to cautiously move into the roadway, directly in front of the driver's side of the bus. You will check left-right-left yourself and wait for the driver's second signal to cross the remainder of the road.

D. Changes in Routes/Stops
Students who plan to go to another destination other than their regular destination must give the campus office a written request from their parents. This permission request will be given to the driver who will retain the request.
Parents or others may not remove a student from the bus without permission from the campus Principal who will notify transportation. Identification will be requested prior to the student's being removed from the bus.

E. Extracurricular/Activity Trips 
School trips will be arranged through the office. A sponsor/chaperon will be on each bus. Students may not be released to friends or any person except the sponsor or the student's parent unless prior arrangements have been made with he campus Principal/personnel prior to the trip. While the driver is responsible for the overall safety of each student, the sponsor/chaperon is responsible for the management of the students while at the event or en route. 

F. Video Cameras
Video camera recording of the ride has proven to be a valuable tool in maintaining safe student conduct. Generally, the camera is installed without the knowledge of the driver. In the event that an incident occurs, videotapes will be retained, and segments may be provided to the campus administrator. However, due to legal issues, the data on the videotape is considered confidential information and as a matter of privacy, is not released outside the campus/department without the appropriate legal document.