Scarsdale Public Schools

Scarsdale School District School Bus Safety Rules

We take student safety very seriously. Riding the school bus is an extension of the school and is a privilege.  Please review the following rules in place to ensure a safe and respectful environment on the buses:

What Parents/Guardians Should Do:

• Review the Rules: Please thoroughly review these rules with your child. They are essential to the safety and comfort of students, bus drivers, and other motorists. Violations may lead to disciplinary action by the school administrator.
• Be on Time: Help ensure that students arrive at the bus stop at least five (5) minutes before the scheduled pick-up time.
• Clothing Check: Ensure that your child’s clothing or backpack does not have long or dangling straps, drawstrings, scarves, etc. These items could get caught on the bus handrail or door, creating a safety hazard.
• Do Not Board the Bus: Parents and guardians should not board the bus at any time.
• Report Unsafe Operation: If you witness any unsafe operation of a school bus, please report it to the Transportation Office.

What Students Should Do:

• Arrive Early: Students should arrive at the bus stop five (5) minutes before the scheduled pick-up time.
• Wait Safely: Wait at the designated bus stop in a safe place, back from the side of the road. Never stand in the danger zone around the bus, which is anywhere close enough to touch the bus or where you cannot see the driver.
• Assigned Bus: Students should only ride their assigned bus and board and exit only at their assigned stop.
• Boarding the Bus: Students should board the bus in single file and go immediately to a seat and buckle up. (failure to wear the seat belt can result in injury).
• Remain Seated: Students must remain seated while the bus is in motion. They should only leave their seat when the bus has come to a complete stop.
• Crossing the Street: If you need to cross the street to board the bus, wait until the bus has come to a complete stop. Look for the stop arm to extend and for the flashing red lights to activate. Watch the driver and wait for their signal to cross. Never cross behind the bus.
• Follow Instructions: Students must follow the instructions of the bus driver and monitor. In case of an emergency, students should carefully follow all directions given by the driver or monitor.
• Use Extreme Caution: Students should always use caution when getting on or off the bus. Be aware that other motorists may be negligent and fail to stop when required by law.
• No Running: Never run to or from the bus.
• Hold the Handrail: When getting on the bus, hold the handrail for safety.
• If You Drop Something: If you drop something near the bus, do not attempt to pick it up. Tell an adult to help.
• Aisle Safety: Place bags and parcels under your seat or on your lap and keep the bus aisle clear at all times
• No Saving Seats: Do not reserve seats, stand on seats, or sit on top of the back of the seat.
• Be Respectful: Do not push, shove, or fight on the bus or at the bus stop.
• No Stealing: Do not take things belonging to others.
• Bus Property: Do not vandalize the school bus or damage property at the bus stop.
• Keep Hands Inside: Always keep your head, hands, and arms inside the bus at all times.
• No Throwing: Throwing objects inside or outside of the bus is not permitted.
• Speak Quietly: Talk quietly on the bus; the driver needs to concentrate on safely driving. Fighting, shouting, or using obscene language is not allowed.
• No Dangerous Items: Dangerous, disturbing, or annoying objects are not permitted on the bus.
• No Eating or Drinking: Eating, drinking, or chewing gum is not allowed on the bus at any time. This rule helps maintain bus cleanliness and ensures the safety of students with food allergies. 

Violation of these Rules will result in Disciplinary Actions Listed Here