Topic outline

  • General

  • Introduction

    • Please note – if you have already completed the online training course, you do not need to complete it again.  

      Once this course is completed you are required to print the STU-17 CDE Medical Information Form, Certificate of Receipt and Understanding, and Certificate of Completion and submit it to the transportation director and complete all other requirements prior to transporting students.

      Contact Rebecca Sykes with any technical or access issues - Sykes_r@cde.state.co.us

  • Driver Role and Responsibility

    • The personal pre-trip is just as important as the vehicle pre-trip. Factors that influence a driver’s well-being are physical, emotional, and mental attitude. Stress in any of these areas can affect driving performance. Under physical, emotional, or mental stress a driver may have trouble concentrating and may experience slowed reaction time.


    • Your responsibilities require a great amount of public contact and also public expectations. You are driving a vehicle with the name of your school district/charter/service provider/company displayed. If something goes wrong on the route, it is likely that your district/charter/service provider will receive a phone call before you return. As a small vehicle operator, you offer a transportation service to many different and challenging customers. Who are your customers? The customers riding in your vehicle will include students, who may be very young and may include young adults, through age 26. Other customers may include supervisors, teachers, parents, and coaches.


    • As a Small Capacity Vehicle Activity Operator driving a vehicle with a capacity of 15 or fewer passengers (counting the driver), including Type A Multi-function Bus and Small Vehicle, you are not required to have a Commercial Driver's License.  However, you must submit a current copy of a valid driver's license to your transportation department.  School Districts, charters, and contractors must then get a copy of your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) to determine if you are eligible for insurance coverage through the district, charter, or contractor insurance carrier.  

    • Pre-Trip and Post-Trip

      Training shall be provided concerning pre-trip and post-trip procedures for the type of vehicle to be operated. The district/charter and service provider procedures for reporting defects should be part of the pre-trip training. The operator of any school transportation vehicle shall perform and document a daily pre-trip prior to a vehicle being placed in service. The post-trip shall be completed at the end of the daily operations of each vehicle. 

      1 CCR 301-26, 9.1 Each school transportation vehicle shall have a daily pre-trip and post-trip inspection performed and documented by the school transportation vehicle operator or other transportation employee authorized by the school district, charter school, or service provider. A daily pre-trip inspection shall be completed prior to a vehicle being placed in service. A daily post-trip inspection shall be completed at the end of daily operation of each vehicle. 

      1 CCR 301-26, 9.3 The pre-trip and post-trip inspection requirements for school transportation small capacity vehicles shall include at a minimum all items listed on the CDE School Transportation Vehicle (Small Capacity Vehicle) – Pre-Trip and Post Trip Requirements Form (STU-8).

      Safety Restraints and Safety Belt Use

      The greatest lifesaving and injury-reducing safety device drivers have on the bus for their own protection is the safety belt. However, if you do not use it, not only are you exposing yourself, your passengers, and other motorists to danger, but you are violating the law. Not only are you required to wear your seat belt per 1 CCR 301-26, 15.01 in addition, but 15.02 also requires that all passengers in the vehicle, if it is under 10,000 GVWR, must use their seat belts as well. As the driver, it is your responsibility to ensure that all of your passengers are secured in their seat belts prior to placing the vehicle in motion.

      1CCR 301-26, 15.1 A school transportation vehicle operator shall have the safety belt fastened, worn correctly, and properly adjusted prior to the school transportation vehicle being placed in motion. 

      15.2 All passengers in a school transportation vehicle under 10,000 lbs. GVWR shall have their safety belts fastened, worn correctly, and properly adjusted prior to the school transportation vehicle being placed in motion.

      Restrictions Regarding Carry-On Items

      As the driver of a small vehicle, whether it be on a route or on an activity trip, it is your responsibility to ensure that all carry-on items are managed and secured. Keep in mind that in the event of a crash all items that have not been properly secured could become airborne, especially if it involves a rollover.

      We all know that students carry a considerable number of items especially if they are travelling to a sporting event. The best practice in the school transportation industry is that if a student can hold the item(s) then they are permitted to bring it aboard. However, there may be occasions where the item being transported cannot be held by a student. In that situation, it must be properly secured per 1 CCR 301-26 16.2. Items are not permitted to be placed in a seat that extends beyond the height of the seat back. They also cannot be placed in the aisle or in front of any emergency exit.

      1 CCR 301-26, 16.1 A school transportation vehicle operator shall ensure that all carry-on items are properly handled in order to minimize the danger to all others. 

      16.2 All baggage, articles, equipment or medical supplies (except those held by individual passengers) shall be secured in a manner which assures unrestricted access to all exits by occupants, does not restrict the driver's ability to operate the bus and protects all occupants against injury resulting from falling or displacement of any baggage, article, or equipment. Oxygen cylinders meet this standard if they are both medically necessary and secured to a wheelchair, shall be considered to be in compliance with this subsection, provided they do not impede access to any exit. School districts, charter schools, and service providers shall use reasonable care in determining the number of cylinders that may be safely transported at one time.

      Emergency Equipment

      Small Capacity Vehicles are required to carry emergency equipment that must be properly secured in the vehicle as well.

      23.0 Emergency Equipment

      23.1 All school transportation vehicles, except for small capacity vehicles, shall be equipped with at least one pressurized, 5-pound, dry-chemical fire extinguisher, with a total rating of not less than 2A10BC. The operating mechanism shall be sealed with a type of seal that will not interfere with the use of the fire extinguisher.

      23.01(a) Fire extinguisher shall be securely mounted in an extinguisher bracket (automotive type) and located in full view of and readily accessible to the driver within the cab, or in a location plainly indicated by appropriate signage. A pressure gauge shall be mounted on the extinguisher as to be easily read without removing the extinguisher from its mounted position.

      23.01(b) Fire extinguishers shall be inspected annually for charging and certification to standards by a certified fire extinguisher technician.

      23.2 Small capacity vehicles shall be equipped with one securely mounted, 2 ½ pound, dry chemical fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 1A10BC. 

      23.3 First Aid Kit: All school transportation vehicles shall carry one first aid kit which shall be securely mounted in full view of the driver or with the location plainly indicated by appropriate signage. Additional kits may be installed. The kit(s) shall be mounted for 12 easy removal.

      23.03(a) The kit shall be sealed. The seal verifies the integrity of the contents without opening the kit. The seal shall be designed to allow easy access to the kit’s contents. If zip ties are used to seal the kit, they must be breakaway zip ties. 

      23.03(b) Consideration should be given to replacing items in the First Aid Kit every 36 months due to the breakdown of materials. Contents of the 24-Unit First Aid Kit: Item Unit(s) Adhesive Tape 1 1 inch adhesive bandage 2 2 inch bandage compress 1 3 inch bandage compress 1 4 inch bandage compress 1 3 inch x 3inch plain gauze pads 1 Gauze roller bandage 2 inch wide 2 Plain absorbent gauze – ½ square yard 4 Plain absorbent gauze – 24 inch x 72 inch 3 Triangular bandages 4 Scissors, tweezers 1 Space rescue blanket 1 Non-latex disposable pair of gloves, pair. 1 CPR mask or mouth to mouth airway 1 Moisture and dustproof kit of sufficient capacity to store the required items. 

      23.4 Emergency Reflectors: All school transportation vehicles shall carry three bidirectional emergency triangle reflectors in compliance with Section 42-4-230, C.R.S. and with FMVSS 125, contained in a securely mounted case easily accessible to the driver or in a location plainly indicated by appropriate markings.

      23.5 Body fluid cleanup kit: All school transportation vehicles shall have one removable body fluid clean-up kit accessible to the driver, within the cab, or in a location plainly indicated by appropriate signage. Contents of the Basic Body Fluid Clean-up Kit: Item Unit(s) Antiseptic towelette 1 Disinfectant towelette 1 Absorbing powder (capable of ½ gallon absorption) 1 Non-latex disposable pair of gloves, pair 1 Disposable wiper towels 2 Disposable scoop bag with closure mechanism and scraper Moisture and a dustproof container of sufficient capacity to store the required items. 

      23.6 Consideration should be given to replacing items in the Body Fluid Clean-Up Kit every 36 months due to the breakdown of materials. 

      23.7 All school transportation vehicles shall be equipped with one durable webbing cutter having a full-width handgrip and a protected blade. The cutter shall be mounted in a location accessible to the seated driver.

      23.07(a) Seat belt cutters shall be replaced after they have been used, or if there is any sign of rust or corrosion on the blade. 

      23.8 Emergency equipment shall be securely mounted, clearly visible or in a location plainly indicated by appropriate signage.

      Chemicals and Cleaning Supplies

      CDE has placed restrictions on the quantity and what can be carried in a school transportation vehicle. If you were ever involved in a crash and emergency services were to respond to the scene and found students covered in liquids, they would want to know what that liquid is so they would know how to properly treat it. Again, all of these items must be properly secured to the vehicle.

      16.0 Transportation of Miscellaneous Items 

      16.1 A school transportation vehicle operator shall ensure that all carry-on items are properly handled in order to minimize the danger to all others. 

      16.2 All baggage, articles, equipment, or medical supplies (except those held by individual passengers) shall be secured in a manner which assures unrestricted access to all exits by occupants, does not restrict the driver's ability to operate the bus and protects all occupants against injury resulting from falling or displacement of any baggage, article, or equipment. Oxygen cylinders meet this standard if they are both medically necessary and secured to a wheelchair, shall be considered to be in compliance with this subsection, provided they do not impede access to any exit. School districts, charter schools, and service providers shall use reasonable care in determining the number of cylinders that may be safely transported at one time. 

      16.3 All chemicals and cleaning supplies carried on a school transportation vehicle must meet the following precautions: 

      16.03(a) Container is non-breakable; 

      16.03(b) Container is labeled with contents

      16.03(c) Pressurized aerosols are 14 prohibited; 

      16.03(d) Container is secured in a bracket, or in a closed compartment in the driver’s area or a compartment on the exterior of the bus; and

      16.03(e) Containers and quantities of products are no more than 32 ounces in size.

      Decorations

      We all know that children like decorations, however, the school bus is not the proper place for decorations, particularly if they potential could block a driver’s view or impede an emergency exit.

      16.4 Interior decorations shall not be located within the driver’s area (including the space in front of the front barriers, the step-well, dash, walls and ceiling, the windshield, the entry door, the driver’s side window, and all windows in front of the front barrier), the first two passenger windows on both sides of the vehicle or all windows on the rear of the vehicle. Other decorations within the passenger compartment shall not;

      16.04(a) Cover any required lettering; 

      16.04(b) Impede the aisle or any emergency exit;

      16.04(c) Hang from the walls and/or ceiling. 

      Decorations on the outside of the vehicle are prohibited as well. The Colorado Minimum Standards Governing School Transportation Vehicles 1 CCR 301-25 specify in detail what exterior color, signage, markings, reflective tape, etc., are permitted on the exterior of a school bus or multifunction bus. 

      16.5 Per the effective date of these rules, school transportation vehicles owned or leased by the district, charter school, and service provider that are used for student transportation shall not have the windows obstructed in any way by advertising, decorations, or vehicle wraps.

      16.05(a) Exception: Tint applied by the vehicle manufacturer to industry standards

      16.05(b) Exception: Route identification is permitted per 1CC 301-26, Rule 16.04

      Maximum Driving Time

      When calculating your maximum drive/on duty -time it is important to understand that the total number of hours includes ANY on-duty time for ALL employers. You cannot exceed 10 hours of driving time in one 24-hour period. You also, cannot exceed 14 hours of on-duty time in one 24-hour period.

      17.0 Maximum Driving Time for School Transportation Vehicle Operators

      17.1 School transportation vehicle operators, including small capacity vehicle operators, shall not drive (nor shall the school districts, charter schools, or service providers permit or require operators to drive):

      17.01(a) In excess of 10 hours or after being on duty 14 hours until completing 10 hours off-duty. This would include on-duty time for all employers. Ten hours off-duty may be consecutive or accumulated in two or more periods of off-duty time with one period having a minimum of six consecutive hours off-duty. 

      17.01(b) After being on duty for more than 70 hours in any seven consecutive days.

      17.01(c) In case of emergency, an operator may complete the trip without being in violation if such trip reasonably could have been completed absent the emergency. 

      17.2 In lieu of section 17.00 of these rules, a school district, charter school, or service provider may comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, 49 CFR section 395. 

      17.3 Definitions:

      17.03(a) Day - Means any 24-consecutive hour period beginning at the time designated by the school district, charter school, or service provider. 

      17.03(b) On-duty time - Includes all time worked for all employers, including all driving and non-driving duties. 

      17.03(c) Off-duty time - School transportation vehicle operators may consider waiting time (whether compensated time or not) at special events, meal stops, and school related events as off-duty if the following criteria are met: 

      17.03(c)(1) The operator shall be relieved of all duty and responsibility for the care and custody of the vehicle, its accessories, and students, and 

      17.03(c)(2) The operator shall be at liberty to pursue activities of his/her choice, including leaving the premises on which the bus is located. 

      17.4 All school transportation vehicle operators shall document that they are in compliance with this section, hours of service. 

      17.04(a) An operator's daily log, or equivalent, shall be completed for the trip in the operator's own handwriting when the trip requires a scheduled or unscheduled overnight stay away from the work reporting location.

      Emergency Evacuations

      As the driver of a school transportation vehicle, you could potentially be the only adult present if an emergency occurs. As the adult present, all the students will be looking to you for instructions and leadership in an emergency. Having written documentation that you are conducting evacuations and reading evacuation instructions prior to every activity trip is required per 1 CCR 301-26, 19.0. We will cover emergencies in greater detail in Unit Six. 

      19.0 Emergency Evacuation Drills 

      19.1 Emergency evacuation drills shall be conducted with students by all school transportation vehicle route operators, excluding small capacity vehicle operators as defined in 301-25, Rule 7.15, and school transportation paraprofessionals at least twice during each school year.

      19.01(a) One drill shall be conducted in the fall and the second drill conducted in the spring.

      19.01(b) Substitute and Multifunction operators shall be trained on how to conduct emergency evacuation drills.

      19.2 Students on school related events shall receive emergency evacuation instruction prior to every initial departure.

      19.3 School districts, charter schools, and service providers shall maintain records documenting that the required evacuation drills were conducted and/or evacuation instruction was given.

      Distracted Driving

      Approximately 5,500 people are killed each year on U.S. roadways and an estimated 448,000 are injured in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted driving (NHTSA Traffic Safety Facts: Distracted Driving).

      Effects of distracted driving include slowed perception, which may cause you to be delayed in perceiving or completely failing to perceive an important traffic event; delayed decision-making and improper action, which can cause you to be delayed in taking the proper action or make incorrect inputs to the steering, accelerator or brakes

      Evidence suggests that text messaging is even riskier than talking on a cell phone because it requires you to look at a small screen and manipulate the keypad with one’s hands.

      Texting is the most alarming distraction because it involves both physical and mental distraction simultaneously.

      Research indicates that the burden of talking on a cell phone - even if it is hands-free - saps the brain of 39% of the energy it would ordinarily devote to safe driving. Drivers who use a hand-held device are more likely to get into a crash serious enough to cause injury. CRS 42-4- 239 is the Colorado statute that makes it a crime for a person 18 years of age or older to text while operating a motor vehicle. A violation of this law is a class 2 traffic misdemeanor that is punishable by a minimum fine of $300.

      The code section states that”

      “a person eighteen years of age or older shall not use a wireless telephone for the purpose    of engaging in text messaging or other similar forms of manual data entry or transmission while operating a motor vehicle.”

      Ø  Turn off all communication devices. If you must use a mobile phone, make sure it is within close proximity; that it is operable while you are restrained; use an earpiece or the speaker-phone function; use voice-activated dialing; or use the hands-free feature. Drivers are not in compliance if they unsafely reach for a mobile phone, even if they intend to use the hands-free function. Do not type or read a text message on a mobile device while driving.

      Ø  Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s features and equipment before you get behind the wheel.

      Ø  Adjust all vehicle controls and mirrors to your preferences prior to driving.

      Ø  Pre-program radio stations and pre-load your favorite CDs.

      Ø  Clear the vehicle of any unnecessary objects and secure cargo.

      Ø  Review maps, program the GPS and plan your route before you begin driving.

      Ø  Do not attempt to read or write while you drive.

      Ø  Avoid eating and drinking while you drive. Leave early to allow yourself time to stop to eat.

      Ø  Do not engage in complex or emotionally intense conversations with other occupants.

       Check your local district/charter or service provider policy regarding the use of a cell phone while on duty.


  • District, Charter and Service Provider Responsibilities and Regulations

    • There are requirements that must be completed for small vehicle school transportation operators.  Likewise, districts, charters and contractors have requirements that they must fulfill to be in compliance with CDE Rules 1 CCR 301-26, Colorado Rules for the Operation, Maintenance and Inspection of School Transportation Vehicles.  Excerpts from 1CCR 301-26 pertaining to small vehicles are listed.

    • Once pre-service training has been completed and documented, the small vehicle operator does have annual CDE requirements that must be completed prior to transporting students.   

      Please note, that these are minimum requirements required by CDE, your employer may require additional training.

      2.03 These rules shall not preclude a school district or service provider from establishing a more rigid standard or policy when deemed necessary by the local board of education or service provider.

  • Vehicle Inspections

    • Vehicle Inspection is a term given to the process of a recommended, systematized sequential procedure for inspecting a vehicle’s condition to transport passengers. 

      During the inspection, drivers try to locate possible mechanical, electrical and/or other conditions by feeling, touching, looking, listening and/or smelling that may cause an interruption of timely service or a collision. Even though many school districts perform inspections somewhat differently, the procedures are basically the same. Performing the inspection is an implied driver duty.

       The transportation of pupils is a sensitive job requiring concern for safety and liability.

  • Operating the Vehicle

    • Driving a school transportation vehicle takes a great deal of skill and understanding of procedures relating to vehicle operations, laws and “Rules of the Road” we must follow. There is an extremely high expectation from the public that we should be nothing short of the absolute best drivers on the road, because we are transporting members of their families. It is important to follow ALL traffic laws not only when you are driving a school transportation vehicle, but in your private vehicle as well. How you drive your private vehicle, is more than likely how you will drive your school vehicle.


    • Lets review some of the driving fundamentals that we learned in drivers training.

    • The main characterization of road rage is a brief period of irrationality. When this occurs drivers experience exaggerated anger, irritation, aggravation and impatience! These emotions lead to impaired judgment, saying or doing things they may later regret, engaging in risky driving behaviors and attempting to punish or retaliate against the offending driver.




    • When you are on school grounds, you should always be going at an extremely low speed, even creeping due to the high volume of people in the general vicinity. If a student were to dart out in front of your vehicle, or slip off the curb would you be able to stop?

       SLOW DOWN ON SCHOOL PROPERTY!

       The main reason drivers exceed speed limits are to save time. However, anyone trying to drive faster than the speed of traffic will not be able to save much time. The risks involved are not worth it. If you go faster than the speed of other traffic, you will have to keep passing other vehicles. This increases the chance of a crash, and it is more tiring. Fatigue increases the chance of a crash. Going with the flow of traffic is safer and easier.


    • You cannot prevent other vehicles from following you too closely, however, there are a few things you can do to reduce some of the risk they create.

    • Delineator Posts are interstate green with colored delineators. They are in high risk and informational areas of roadways to convey a variety of messages to motorists. Below are some specifics on delineators.

       Delineator Panels These are a striped marker consisting of a vertical rectangle with alternating black and retro-reflective yellow stripes sloping downward at an angle of 45 degrees toward the side of the obstruction on which traffic is to pass. These types of delineators can be seen on the end of guardrails, on bridges, etc.

       Delineator a retro-reflective device mounted above the roadway surface and along the side of the roadway in a series to indicate the alignment of the roadway, especially at night or in adverse weather.


    • Traffic Control Devices

      Standardized traffic controls are used to control and guide driver behavior. Most school bus drivers will be familiar with these devices because of their experience with driving automobiles. This section will briefly review all types of traffic control devices, highlighting some of the less understood, newer devices. Traffic signs can convey many different types of messages to the driver. They inform the driver of laws, warning of hazards ahead, or information and guidance.


    • 18.13 Pursuant to 42-4-707 C.R.S., School transportation vehicle operators of School Buses, Multifunction Buses and Motor Coach Buses, whether transporting students or not, shall apply the following procedures during the process of approaching, stopping and crossing railroad tracks:

    • View Receive a grade Receive a passing grade
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  • Activity Trips

    • An activity trip is an exciting and special experience for our students and it is important the transportation providers are aware of possible challenges.  Challenges, such as selecting the wrong route, running out of fuel, or arriving late to your destination can occur.  In addition, pupil problems can develop because of inadequate food or rest stops.  The BEST way to ensure a safe and happy trip is through pre-planning.  Without proper planning, minor problems can become major problems.

    • Make sure your Advisor/Sponsor knows what their responsibilities are.  Double-check your district policy, but they may include the following:

    • Concerns may arise while on an activity trip due to the nature and length of the trip.  Unless adequate plans are made and precautions taken, passenger behavior problems will arise.  The following conditions should be identified:

  • Crash and Emergency Procedures

    • Procedures - If you are involved in an accident

    • 1 CCR 301-26

      4.5 School districts, charter schools and service providers shall have written emergency procedures and/or contingency plans to be followed in the event of a traffic accident, vehicle breakdown, unexpected school closing, unforeseen route change, or relocation of a student stop in an emergency.

      9.1  Each school transportation vehicle shall have a daily pre-trip and post-trip inspection performed and documented by the school transportation vehicle operator or other transportation employee authorized by the school district, charter school, or service provider. A daily pre-trip inspection shall be completed prior to a vehicle being placed in service. A daily post-trip inspection shall be completed at the end of daily operation of each vehicle.


       


    • Emergency Triangles 

      Each school transportation vehicle is equipped with three emergency reflective triangles. In case of a breakdown, accident or other emergency, the driver, paraprofessional, or qualified individual will place the triangles, as the law requires.

    • 1 CCR 301-25, 2251-R-20.06

      20.06(a) - Three (3) emergency triangle reflectors in a securely mounted case.

      20.06(b) - One 24 unit first aid kit as found in 20.02.

      20.06(c) - One securely mounted 2½ pound, dry chemical fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 1A10BC.

      20.06(d) - One durable webbing cutter having a full width handgrip and a protected blade. The cutter shall be mounted in a location accessible to the seated driver.

      20.06(e) - One basic body fluid clean-up kit as found in 20.04.

      Optional Emergency Equipment may include:

      • Blankets

      • 2-way radio, cellular phone

      • Emergency information forms

      • Accident check list

      • Student list

      • Flashlight

      • Disposable mask

      • Bag of salt, kitty litter, or sand

       

    • Despite good design, engineering, and preventative maintenance programs, there may be mechanical failures. The driver should do the following in case of a vehicle breakdown:

    • Planning for emergencies and knowing what to do at the time of an emergency will prevent panic and confusion. When a large number of passengers are moving rapidly to evacuate a bus, there is always the possibility of panic and injury. The safety of the students is your first priority. In the majority of emergency situations, the bus is the safest place for the passengers unless extenuating circumstances warrant evacuation from the bus.

      The following are examples of serious types of emergencies that may require emergency evacuation. In most cases, the front door evacuation is the safest.


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    • Receive a grade Receive a passing grade Receive a pass grade or complete all available attempts
  • Adverse Weather and Mountain Driving

    • In this section, there is information on adverse weather conditions, driving techniques, and information pertinent to School Bus Driving in all weather conditions experienced in Colorado. Becoming aware of the effects on the performance of the vehicle and the proper procedures to counter the effects of the conditions will provide the understanding required to respond correctly. Slow down, pull over, or make the decision to reschedule. Safety must be the driver’s primary concern.

    • Weather conditions can be unpredictable, placing extra demands on the bus and operator. Always be prepared for winter roads and adjust speed to the existing conditions. Three key elements to safe winter driving are to stay alert, slow down, and stay in control. Drive according to highway and weather conditions.

    • Mountain driving presents unique problems and situations that require greater attention to the same driving skills and expertise expected of all operators of school buses and small vehicles. Other hazards include high winds, sightseeing motorists and bicyclists. The margin for error is reduced and minor mistakes can develop into major problems.

      On and after July 1, 1992, the driver of any school vehicle as defined in section 42-1-102 (88.5) owned or operated by or for any school district in this state shall have successfully completed training, approved by the department of education, concerning driving on mountainous terrain, as defined in section 42- 4-1901 (3) (a), and driving in adverse weather.

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  • First Aid Information

    • 1 CCR 301-26

      5.1  School transportation vehicle operators driving any vehicle with the capacity of 16 or greater passengers (counting the driver) shall meet or exceed the following requirements:

      5.01(i) The operator shall have written documentation evidencing that they have received first aid training, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation and universal precautions within 90 calendar days after initial employment. If the operator holds a current first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation certificate it will meet the requirements of this section. Operators shall receive first aid training and/or re- certification every two (2) years thereafter.

       5.2  School transportation vehicle route operators(transporting students to and from school or from school to school) driving vehicles with the capacity of 15 or fewer passengers (counting the driver), including Type A Multifunction Bus and Small Vehicle, shall meet or exceed the following requirements:

      5.02(j) The operator shall have written documentation evidencing that they have received first aid training, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation and universal precautions within 90 calendar days after initial employment. If the operator holds a current first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation certificate it will meet the requirements of this section. Operators shall receive first aid training and/or re- certification every two (2) years thereafter.

       5.3  School transportation vehicle operators, other than route operators, driving vehicles with the capacity of 15 or fewer passengers (counting the driver), including Type A Multifunction Bus and Small Vehicle, shall meet or exceed the following requirements:

       5.03(h) The operator shall be given and/or have access to first aid information, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation and universal precautions.

       

      Notice that rule requires small vehicle activity operators to receive only first aid information.


  • Loading and Unloading

    • The loading and unloading of passengers presents the driver with tremendous responsibilities and requires the use of sound judgment. The driver must execute the proper procedures for interacting with other vehicular traffic, in managing pupils who are loading and unloading from the bus.

      This unit deals with the proper use of hazard warning lights as well as the procedures for safe loading and unloading of passengers. Learning and using these procedures will assist the driver in safely transporting their passengers to and from school. This is the point where students and drivers are exposed to many hazards. Ignoring these procedures could result in severe injury or death to one or more of their passengers or other highway users.


  • Confidentiality and Mandatory Reporting

    • School districts share personally identifiable information from an education record only on the condition that the recipient of the information will not disclose the information to any other party without the prior consent of the parent or eligible student.

      Transportation departments and school bus companies must make reasonable efforts to protect the student information they receive, whether they use physical means, like keeping the information under lock; or administrative means, through the use of training and policies prohibiting all disclosure other than sharing with another school official who has a legitimate educational interest; or key technological means like providing it on computers only when password-protected.

      In order to receive student information which is otherwise confidential, school transporters must receive training -- like all other personnel who receive this information in the course of their job duties.

      The U.S. Department of Education stated that the IEP must include more than a “yes” or “no” to the question “Is transportation a related service?” Rather, it must include accommodation, modifications, and supports which must be provided for the child in accordance with his/her unique needs.

      Individual Education Program (IEP)

      “In all instances, each student’s need for transportation as a related service and the type of transportation to be provided are issues to be discussed and decided during the evaluation process and individualized education program (IEP) meeting, and the transportation arrangements agreed upon should be included in the disabled student’s IEP.”




    • A report of child abuse is made every ten seconds.

      Every year more than 3.6 million referrals are made to child protection agencies involving more than 6.6 million children (a referral can include multiple children)

      The United States has one of the worst records among industrialized nations – losing on average between four and seven children every day to child abuse and neglect

      Yearly, referrals to state child protective services involve 6.6 million children, and around 3.2 million of those children are subject to an investigated report. 


  • Conclusion

  • Required Documentation for Driver Qualification File

    Once you have printed each required supporting documents - STU-17, Certification of Receipt and Understanding and the Guide - you need to check each box next to that document manually to activate your Certificate to view and print.