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 Susan Miller with any technical or access issues - miller_s@cde.state.co.us
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 Vehicle Activity Operator driving a vehicle with the 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 License. However, you must submit a current copy of a valid driver 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.
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 daily operations of each vehicle.
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, 15.02 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.
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. 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 to the extent that it would extend beyond the height of the seat back. They also cannot be placed in the aisle or in front of any emergency exit.
Small Vehicles are required to carry emergency equipment that must be properly secured in the vehicle as well.
CDE has placed restricts 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.
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.
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 great detail what exterior color, signage, markings, reflective tape etc., are permitted on the exterior of a school bus or multifunction bus.
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.
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 of 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.
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.
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 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.
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:
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.