School buses are more than just vehicles to transport students; they are extensions of the educational environment where students spend a considerable amount of time. For students with disabilities, especially those with a 504 Plan or an Individualized Education Program (IEPs), ensuring their safety on the school bus is paramount. The IEP process provides a framework for parents and schools to collaborate effectively in addressing the unique needs of these students, including their safety during transportation.
Students with disabilities often face additional challenges when it comes to transportation. Factors such as mobility issues, sensory sensitivities, communication barriers, and medical conditions can make traveling on a school bus more complex. It’s crucial for parents and educators to recognize these challenges and work together to develop strategies to mitigate risks.
Bus Driver Training: Key to Safe Transportation
Bus drivers play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of all students, including those with disabilities. Comprehensive training programs can equip drivers with the knowledge and skills needed to address diverse needs and situations effectively. Here are some essential components of bus driver training:
- Disability Awareness – Bus drivers should receive training on various types of disabilities, common challenges faced by students, and appropriate communication strategies. Understanding the specific needs of students with disabilities fosters empathy and enables drivers to provide tailored support during transit.
- Emergency Response – In the event of an emergency or medical situation on the bus, prompt and appropriate action is crucial. Bus driver training should include protocols for handling emergencies specific to students with disabilities, such as administering medication, assisting with mobility devices, or communicating with emergency responders effectively.
- Behavior Management – Students with disabilities may exhibit behaviors that require special attention or intervention during bus rides. Bus drivers should be trained in positive behavior management techniques, de-escalation strategies, and conflict resolution methods to maintain a safe and respectful environment for all passengers.
- Accessibility and Equipment Operation – Bus drivers need to be proficient in operating accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts or securement systems, to assist students with mobility impairments. Training should also cover proper usage of specialized equipment and adaptive devices that students may rely on during transportation.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers a comprehensive 5.25 hour online training that covers topics such as types of disabilities and behaviors, communication issues, specialized equipment, and emergency situations, but it is not required for New Jersey bus staff. State law (NJSA 18A:39-19.2) requires bus companies to ensure that drivers and aides who are transporting students with disabilities view a 28-minute training video developed by NJDOE. There is no requirement for training that is specific to the needs of the children in their care.
The Role of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
IEPs serve as personalized roadmaps for students with disabilities, outlining their specific educational goals, accommodations, and support services. While IEPs primarily focus on academic needs, they can also address transportation-related concerns. Here’s how parents and schools can leverage the IEP process to enhance safety on school buses:
- Identify Transportation Needs – During IEP meetings, parents and school personnel should discuss the student’s transportation requirements comprehensively. This includes assessing the student’s ability to board and exit the bus safely, any specialized equipment or accommodations needed, and strategies for managing behaviors that may arise during transit.
- Develop Individualized Transportation Plans – Based on the student’s unique needs, an Individualized Transportation Plan (ITP) can be incorporated into the IEP. The ITP outlines specific protocols and accommodations to ensure the student’s safety and comfort while traveling on the school bus. This may involve assigning a trained aide to accompany the student, providing specialized seating arrangements, or implementing communication tools for non-verbal students.
- Collaborate with Bus Personnel – Effective communication between parents, school staff, and bus drivers is essential for implementing the IEP’s transportation provisions successfully. Prior to the start of each school year, parents can arrange meetings with bus drivers and transportation coordinators to discuss the student’s needs, review emergency procedures, and address any concerns or questions.
Since 2015, New Jersey state law (NJSA 18A:39-19.4) has allowed for a student information card to provide information to bus staff about the unique needs of each child with a disability. The law requires that card be readily available to a school bus driver and school bus aide to help promote proper interaction with the student. The districts must give a copy of the completed form to a school bus driver and school bus aide for each student on the bus route for whom a student information card has been completed. The one-page form asks two questions:
- Provide information to the school bus driver and/or bus aide that will assist them in ensuring your child rides the bus successfully.
- Does your child utilize any adaptive equipment, including a communication device, that the school bus driver and/or aide should be familiar with?
While this has been an option for the last nine years, advocates say it is very rarely, if ever used, and few have heard of it.
Under the law, the IEP team has no responsibility for the Student Information card. Rather, it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to complete the student information card when the IEP is developed.
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