School Bus Drivers

HEART OF A BUS DRIVER

2011-03-03T09:22:00.000-08:00

This just in from our mail box. Thanks

HEART OF A BUS DRIVER

Over the hill and down the street

Old friends to see and new faces to greet.

Your stop is at the end of the street !

Sit straight in your seat and please don't eat.

Who are you and what's your name ?

I may or may not want to play your game.

" I'm the driver of this bus and responsible for all of us.

The game I play is like baseball "THREE STRIKES YOUR OUT"

Now let me explain what bus riding is all about.

Good Morning my dears, keep your voices

down I need to hear.

Please sit down and stay seated so I

Can see all the dangers coming near.

Don't put anything out that window not even your ear.

When you look at the doom and see the light on

Don't act like you don't know what's going on.

And put away your cell phone.

"If you don't write me up this time I'll be your best friend"

They say with an angelic grin.

If you can be good for a week I'll think about it then.

Maybe you and I will be friends.

Ut Oh ! Their starting to get under your skin.

Then comes December, and for no rhyme or reason you begin to worry

about being on time to keep them from freez'n

I'M sure it's just because of the holiday season.

They come with candles, cups with funny handles and

Your favorite cookies and cakes.

I bet from here out you wait a while when their running late

It's great how they worm and squirm their way into your heart

And make it very hard at the end to part.

Some people think this is just another job, a way to make money.

Yes, their right it's that, and a lot more !

Your making a difference each day when you drive a bus.

You're the sunshine that starts their day,

By picking them up and taking them on their way.

You get their hugs and smiles as they say

"Good Morning Mr. or Ms. Bus Driver."

May God Bless and guide you along your special way

As you make a difference in the lives of our most precious cargo
everyday

YES !

A "BUS DRIVER" is what you are, and

THAT MAKES YOU VERY SPECIAL BY FAR !!

By: Florence J. Lamont

Willis ISD Transportation Department
Willis, Texas

Yikes - Spikes

2010-12-16T07:38:00.000-08:00

Oh Man!!! more BS, from First Student of course!

Now we have to wear rubber spiky things on our boots or shoes for the winter, supposedly to stop us from slipping.

They are poor quality and break easily. Several drivers have already reported, lost spikes and broken rubber and we have had them only a couple weeks.

The tread on my own boots is better than this safety equipment, but this junk is now mandatory to be worn around the bus, and in the yards.

However because of the spikes and possible damage to floors, you cannot go into schools or offices with them on, so must remove them... this is a major hassle when they are cold and wet.

I would like to know how many are now are being forces to wear these rubber spiky things on you feet for the winter., and please share your opinion on the pros and cons of these things.

Maybe our branch is just over reacting to all of this, as most drivers in our branch are disgusted with most everything coming out these days.

Our branch has been reduced to nothing but a parking lot with a storage shed. No hydro to plug in buses, no plumbing, no nothing..

A run at my school was lost... sort of .... it actually got split between myself and another driver, more time, more distance but not enough distance to get more money.

I work an extra hour a day but get nothing for it, and this is the sort of thing that is going on around this company constantly.

WOW!!! what did First Student say when they first came here " don't worry things won't hardly change at all".... what a load of BS that was ... it sucks when you work for a nameless entity, no one is responsible for anything, complaints or problems just pass up the line to the nameless no-where, where policies are created without any actual thought to the process or to the people they effect.

Everyone knows that different areas have different needs or standards, and common sense is usually best, but.... Policy and procedure, are the catch phrases of a share holder run company, follow these rules, no matter how ridiculous they may be, or lose your job.

Man I think I need another coffee ... a strong one!

Incredible Weather

2010-04-13T11:08:00.000-07:00

Oh I just love the warm sun we have been enjoying here. It's so nice to see such an early early spring for a change.

So what's new?

Well I have 2 new students riding my bus since I posted last and they are both settling in very nicely.

I also needed to lower the boom on a couple of litterbugs that are on my bus.

Every so often I need to remind both kids and parents that our buses are not just giant trash cans...

I have also started a new blog... that I will introduce here soon.

Enjoy the sunshine and I hope everyone has a great week!!

January 2010

2010-01-04T09:49:00.000-08:00

First day back driving, and what kind of day is this ... A true miserable January day.

Plagued by snow squalls, not quite bad enough in my little area of the world to cancel all of our buses, the visibility was at times pretty low.

I really never mind driving in whatever weather... as long as I can see the road that is.

Thick fog or blowing snow most aways give me a headache, and I just as soon curl up with another hot coffee as bundle up to face down old mother nature on this kind of days.

But the kids were great this morning. Waiting for me, all bundled with pink noses showing and eager to tell of all the Christmas magic the holiday had had.

I love listening to the kids chatter, love listening to the telling of treasures and treats, hearing them compare notes, and giggling with each other... it's such a happy sound,... it even helps the headaches tone down... hmmmm

Happy New Year

2010-01-02T08:48:00.000-08:00

Hi all, I haven't been here much, life got very complicated for me for a while, but I plan to bring you more school bus updates and news in this new year soon.

Meantime I hope everyone has had a safe and happy holiday.

Back To Work

2009-09-08T06:36:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day back to school in our area, and all my kids were anxious to go back and happy to see me, all looked so nice dressed in there new clothes.

But it could be a week before I meet all my new JK's.

New this year are anti theft devices on all our buses.

I guess in some areas people may actually steal buses, but here ..????.

To me it seemed a huge waste of money to scrap the child checkmate system, in favor of the new system this year.

But the new anti theft device did give me a chuckle.

I was checking out the new system and was speciffically checking the new motion sensor, it did detected me moving around alright, and my bus thearteningly annouced "Please sit down and someone will be with you shortly"

It just cracked me up! Imagine a would be thief hearing something like that.

But I must admit that I think I had the silly thing in charter mode, because I have heard other buses tell people

"Your unlawfully on the premises, please leave at once, the authorities have been called"

Or maybe my bus is just extra polite..

Winding Down

2009-05-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

Well the wages are settled, and as expected the raise was small. Maybe next year we can get a break.

As the school year is winding down the kids on the bus are winding up. All are looking forward to a great summer vacation. (me too)

The tourists are back in our area now and extra care needs to be taken as more drunk drivers occupy our roads.

Keep well all.

May Days

2009-05-04T08:26:00.000-07:00

Wow its been a very busy time around here. I haven't had time to come sit at my computer for over a week.

Been busy with spring house and garden cleaning, and have started this years wage negotiations for our drivers with the company.

With the current economic climate they are not going to give us much, and management claims that they will all have a wage freeze this year.

Will meet with managment again on May 8 to discuss more.

Zero Tolarance Fiasco Upsets School Bus Driver

2009-04-20T06:43:00.000-07:00

Here is a story emailed to me from a midwest driver

"I have been a school bus driver for 11 years, having received training in these 11 years for a wide range of behavioral situations from fight, bullying, temper tantrums, weapon threats.

During these years I have encountered most behavior situations. At present, I transport up to 68 students grades PK thru 12 during each route and this is my story....

Two weeks prior to Christmas 2008 a high school student was overheard saying he was going to bring a gun with him the next day and shoot three other students on my bus as well as another student at school.

He stated the type of gun he was going to bring, pointed at the students he was talking about as well as mentioning names and was very descriptive. This student that overheard this conversation brought it to my attention right away. I immediately contacted my bus company for which the police were called.

After investigation this young man was apprehended, suspended from school, went through counseling and was on house arrest.

February 2009 this young man was able to return to school in an alternative schooling program but also able to take one class within the mainstream school.

His parent(s) tried to get him back on my bus for which the school district said that would not be allowed at least for the rest of this school year.

It is now April 17, 2009...this young man was allowed back on my bus April 13, 2009 by that same school district despite my managers disagreement. The school district felt this boy has been compliant and should be allowed with the understanding he is to remain at the front of the bus near me.

It is one thing when a student bullies or harasses but this was a direct threat to lives!

Zero tolerance is suppose to mean ZERO TOLERANCE especially for this! Can my frustration be understood here? I can't help but feel that this boy made the mistake of verbalizing his intent, he won't make that mistake again he's just going to act.

Everyday he gets on I am nervous, praying for the knowledge, wisdom and strength to handle a situation if it arises. On a daily basis I am responsible for the lives of these children on my bus, the definition of responsibility has now changed. I look upon these children as my own for the time frame they are under my charge...two of these children are of my own daughters.

Please tell me what you think.

Midwest School Bus Driver"

I agree with you fellow driver, this student is a threat to you and the other children you carry, this person should not be buses on a regular bus, or at the very least should have an adult monitor for one on one supervision.

He may have just been shooting off his mouth, or perhaps the threat was real. Maybe he is repentive and maybe he learned his lesson but in my opinion it's just to big a risk for him to be on your bus. I do hope your school district will rethink this situation and, we will all say a prayer for your safety.

Happy Easter

2009-04-09T07:24:00.000-07:00

I'm getting ready to take a trip to the big city this evening.

If your out and about this Easter weekend please do drive careful and be safe, and here's a little something for you this Easter.

BEWARE OF IDENTITY THEFT THIS EASTER

For More Pics Click Here

Bus driver quits after bizarre incident

2009-04-07T08:18:00.000-07:00

This story really is a bit nutty..

It seems this driver decided to take a tour rather than drive the route with all the kids on board.
Read Here

What in the world was this driver thinking?

I know we all have found cute kids on our buses that we would love to call our own, ... but a whole bus full! .... geez! what was she thinking

2 left abandoned by school bus drivers

2009-04-06T06:32:00.000-07:00

According to the Staten Island Advance

"On Thursday, an 11-year-old girl from PS 25 was dropped off at the wrong location even though she told the driver she didn't live there. And on Tuesday, a 6-year-old boy from PS 37 was found on a darkened school bus after it had already pulled into the bus depot."

Full story here

It seems to me that these incidents are increasing rather than decreasing.

But why did this happen? Why did this first driver not have the girls proper
address?

Where was the communication breakdown between the parent, school, and driver?

If this girl was fussing about the stop, why did the driver not take a moment to to get clarification from dispatch? Are their no radios in this bus?

I find their are just many questions on this one that never should have been questions in the first place.

As to the boy left on the bus .. well that is totally inexcusable as far asI'm concerned.

Most bus companies are now implementing measures to try and stop school bus drivers from leaving kids behind.

As an example, all our First Student company buses here in Ontario,are equipped with what's called a child check mate system.

Once our red flashing light have been activated, a driver must walk to the back of the bus to push an alarm button before they can turn that bus off. .

This little exercise is designed to remind drivers to really look at all areas of their bus to find any kids that may still be left on board.

However, even this system is not infallible because some drivers will just push the button, while not really checking their buses as they should.

A dangerous and foolish move.

In my opinion instant dismissal of any driver is fully warranted for this neglectful action.

34 courtesy Lake school-bus routes on the chopping block

2009-04-03T07:11:00.000-07:00

According to the Orlando Sentinal, the Lake County School Board is mulling a proposal to get rid of bus transportation for more than 4,000 students as the district faces large budget cuts.

Full Story Here

This just shows that no jobs are really safe in today's economic climate, and reminds us all that school buses are really just a service or privilege and not a necessity or right.

In times gone past, kids walked long distances to get to schools, and no one thought much about it. Now so many think that a kid can't walk around the block, or that they may melt in the rain or snow.

I know I need my job, as do other school bus drivers, and I hate to see any routes lost, but these are tight times worldwide, ... leaving us all to wonder who may get the chopping block next.

April Fools Day Fun - From Peter Wright

2009-04-03T07:01:00.000-07:00

Here's a cute one sent to me from Peter

"I had a bit of fun on April Fool's Day this year. I tried this last year, but most of my students were middle schoolers who were not so easily fooled. This year, however, I had a run of only elementary school students. Let the fun begin!

I waited until I had picked up my last stop and was on the way to their school. I got on the intercom system and made the following announcement: "I just got a call from base that a tree has fallen at your school and caused a power outage. They want me to take you back to your stops and your parents have all been called so they will be waiting to pick you up. School is canceled today!"

After the cheering had died down I let them have it with "April Fools!"

Peter Wright
Washington State Bus Driver

Thanks Peter, and have a great day!

Maysville School Bus Fire

2009-04-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

According to Whiz reporter Jennifer Steck,

Tamara Brennan is the school bus driver of the Maysville School bus that caught fire yesterday afternoon.

Apparently the school bus was completed engulfed in flames within 10 minutes.

Tamara Brennan is indeed a hero, and 21 children are safe because of her calm quick thinking, and instant response to the danger.

While evacuations are part of our school bus driver training, it's training that we all hope we never have to implement.

Kudos to you Tamara, you did a great job!

Full Story Here

Driver Evaluation

2009-04-01T10:15:00.000-07:00

A few years back, our company began to give every driver a review every two years to ensure that we did not develop bad driving habits,.... yesterday was my turn.

The roads were good and the drive was nice, and our trainer is easy to work with.

Once we were done I discovered that these reviews were going to be done every year now instead of every two.

I believe, most professional drivers when doing a road test will be concentrating on giving there best performance, and will seldom make mistakes.

But do these reviews really tell how a driver is doing from day to day? I don't think so.

Oh by the way ... I did pass ... again.

Have a good day all!

6 of 10 Carousel bus drivers improperly licensed

2009-03-29T07:14:00.000-07:00

After scanning my mail this morning I came across this story,

Read this

After reading that story, I scanned some of the other stories regarding the Carousel preschool, and found not only improperly licenced drives but a disturbing report of a two year old who choked to death in that same daycare center.

An investigation is apparently being done into these matters, but how could any reputable business be so remiss with the safety of these babies, I was shocked to see that this daycare is still allowed to operate at all.

March Break 2009

2009-03-19T07:21:00.000-07:00

It's turning out to be a very busy March break for me.

I have been away to help a relative, and am now getting ready to drive far north.

Last night driving home I found a lot of drivers that were speeding and driving dangerously.

Spotted a few that were under the influence too.

I do wish people would thing about the loss others suffer when accidents or needless deaths occur.

slow down, drive safe, arrive alive. Please!!!

Drivers Not Stopping For School Buses

2009-03-12T09:23:00.000-07:00

This week alone I heard at least two of our drivers report vehicles not stopping when their school bus lights are flashing and the stop arm is out.

This is a dangerous practise that all drivers need to be aware of.

In most areas you are not allowed to pass a school bus from either direction, that is stopped with big red lights flashing and stop arm extended, and to do so not only endangers the kids getting off the bus, but can get you a very large fine as well.

In addition we school bus drivers often see drivers who thinks it's OK to just keep creeping up to the school bus. These drivers seem to think if they just go slowly, that we can and will get the kids away without them really stopping.

Coming to a full stop is the only safe way to allow children to cross the road, and stopping instead of creeping will likely get you on your way a lot quicker.

We school bus drivers are not trying to annoy you or make you late, but we can not and will not allow our passengers to get off until you actually stop your vehicle.

We need your cooperation to do our jobs quickly and safely.

So please, next time you see the big yellow bus with lights flashing, ask yourself what would you like this driver to do with if it was your child getting off now.

School Bus Driver Attacked

2009-03-10T08:59:00.000-07:00

This is a very graphic video of a 16-year-old boy beating a female school bus driver who had repeatedly ordered him to sit down for his own safety.

This incident took place last Tuesday in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

The woman, a substitute driver, was transporting special needs high school students with emotional and behavioral problems.

The boy’s father claimed, the bus driver “provoked” his son by tapping the brakes and throwing him off balance.

The boys mother tried to defend her son's actions, saying he was bi-polar and schizophrenic with no history of violence.

But apparently, News channel 3 found five prior assault charges on the boy's record.

This teen is currently being held on $5,000 bond at a juvenile detention facility.

The bus driver has reportedly suffered a broken hand, burst blood vessels in both eyes, cuts, swelling and contusions in the face area, as well as six stitches in her lip.

WOW can you believe this.....

It's frightening to think what can happen just for doing your job.

Furthermore, if the school was aware of the possible violent nature of these kids, then I have to ask why their was no adult monitor on board that bus.

This driver is to be congratulated. She had managed to stop the bus before the attack, saving the bus, passengers, and others around from being hurt or killed.

Had the bus still been moving and out of control who knows what could have happened.

I hope this driver sues the parents of this kid, and the school or school board for placing her in a dangerous situation with no protection.

Does Desegragation Busing Still Exist?

2009-03-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

Good morning all, it's a good day here today, pretty cold but sunny and bright.

I was looking through the various articles that come my way and found this article.

What busing really does to kids

Now I have to wonder if parts of the USA still designates black and white areas, and if so why?

I guess I was just a little shocked that such antiquated practices could still be in place.

Hmmm....

Teens charged with terrorizing Portage school bus

2009-02-16T07:11:00.000-08:00

Talk about bad behavior - Read this.

"Three Portage teenagers have been arrested after police say the boys terrorized others on their school bus for nearly six months.

Police say the boys used fear to take over the bus as they groped girls, threatened other riders and made blowtorches from aerosol cans.

Portage police learned of the problem when a 16-year-old girl called her stepfather after one of the boys tried to shove her face into another boy's exposed genitals.

The stepfather first talked to the bus driver, but went to police when the driver didn't contact anyone.

The boys were arrested Friday on juvenile charges, including criminal recklessness and sexual battery, and all face expulsion from school."

I can't believe this went on for nearly six months and the driver was not aware of the problem.

These students certainly should be permanently suspended, and I think the driver should be fired as well.

Happy Valentines Day - Bus Drivers

2009-02-13T09:47:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is Valentines day,

and my bus kids are all smiles as they hand out valentines to their friends.

In keeping with the Valentine spirit...

Here is my special "Valentine for You"

Maybe your special someone will take you somewhere special, or maybe do something out of the ordinary just to surprise you.

I do wish you all a great day and a great weekend as well!

Dreary Days

2009-02-11T07:43:00.000-08:00

Today is one of those days I feel like flubbing on the couch all day.... wet, foggy and damp, just generally a lousy winter day.

A lot of my kids seem to have colds or flu bugs and several were away this morning.

I can hardly wait for spring to arrive.

But while I am waiting, here are some school bus driver stories found in the news.

School Bus Driver finds body A school-bus driver transporting 16 children discovered a body
Monday morning after pulling over to inspect an oddly shaped clump in a
ditch off a dirt road ...

School bus driver fired Calgary, AB, Canada
Parents at a southeast elementary school are raising concerns over
school bus safety, after a bus driver verbally lashed out at
students. ...

Children Left on School Bus Halifax Co., VA -
The students ended up on the bus because two county bus drivers
didn't follow the rules. They dropped off kids at school, but didn't
check the entire bus to ...

Groundhog Wiarton Willie Predicts, Winter Stays 6 More Weeks

2009-02-03T07:29:00.000-08:00

Well our own dear old Wiarton Willie having seen his shadow, announced yesterday that we should expect another 6 weeks of winter.

Wouldn't you know it that the one day of the winter when we wanted cloudy skies, the sun would shine bright.... ugh... then today of course, we get plagued with heavy snow steamers off the lake.

Many of our local kids were off the buses yesterday morning, as their parents took them to attend the Wiarton Willie festival.

Festivities included plenty of costumes, music and songs, followed by a big pancake breakfast, but most importantly, my kids reported that a good time was had by one and all!

Airfoils on school buses

2009-01-23T08:06:00.000-08:00

First many thanks to "Apple" who found the name Airfoil for us.

This is a rear mounted airfoil for a school bus.

These are designed to keep the rear of a school bus and especially the flashing
lights clean.

They supposedly work by re-directing air from over the top of the bus to blow
down over the rear.

The airfoils I found were in the $200 -$300 price range and I suspect the bus
companies could buy a lot of brooms at this price

From Sheri - Snow On The Back Of Buses

2009-01-17T10:19:00.000-08:00

Sheri has sent us this request, if you can help with this problem please leave your comments or send me an email from the right side link

Thanks Sue.

"Hi, I am a bus driver from northern Indiana.

I am wondering if anyone has anything information on a device that will help keep the snow off the back of the new C-2 Thomas bus I have.

I was given a flier about a year ago with a photo of something that looked like a spoiler and it was supposed to keep the snow off.

I gave it to the mechanic, he got sick and was off a long time, and now we are having the problem with having to go back and scrape the snow off during the route so that the red and yellow lights can be seen.

If anyone has any product or know of what would work let me know.
Thanks Sheri

Welcome 2009

2009-01-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

Hi all I'm back, and hope everyone had a great holiday.

If your like me you probably had to much, and gained a few pounds.

Actually, I was already a bit overweight and all the sweets and treats really rounded me out.

"Sigh"

Oh well! I'm just glad to see all my kids back safe and sound, and listening to all the goodies that Santa brought was really interesting and fun.

Kids sure do seem to get a lot of expensive toys these days, and the number of ipods and ds's on the bus keeps growing by leaps and bounds.

While I do not mind the kids having these things in the bus so long as they use ear phones, I do worry about these things while on the bus.

Breakage from dropping or theft if left behind, is a real possibility, and we drivers have no control over these things.

If in doubt, do not send them out, as we drivers cannot take responsibility for your child's lost or damaged things.

Merry Christmas - 2008

2008-12-19T07:54:00.000-08:00

Fa -La -La -La - La-.... well you know!

I just love the Christmas season.

The kids on the bus have been singing, and all are sporting big happy smiles.

I also enjoy the little gifts they bring me, especially the hand make cards, and the home baked goodies were just mouth wateringly delicious.

Ohhhh.. I feel so blessed.

Here's a great big thank you children for the delightful gifts and songs, and thank you parents for your contributions as well.

May all who read this have a super happy holiday and a terrific new year as well!!!!

School Bus Cancellation Update

2008-12-15T05:56:00.000-08:00

What a week it was!

The weather network was right, the roads were bad here on the peninsula last Tuesday, but with our manager away, the replacement dispatcher had no authority to cancel the buses.

The AM run was tricky at best and the PM run found several of our buses stuck.

In fact the tow truck driver refused to go up one particular road to pull the bus out, and we had to get a local farmer with his tractor to go in instead.

No one was hurt and no damage to any bus occurred, except the manager maybe, who had a major headache when she returned to the shop around 5pm that evening to find stuck buses and several drivers chewing her ears off about the bad road conditions.

At that time at least 2 buses were still stuck, and the last of them didn't make it home until after 8pm.

Fortunately Wednesday was much better, with the plows and sanders doing a good job.

This week is also off to a weird start, the temperature is well above freezing and it has been raining for two days.

If you listen to the road reports here, the roads sound fine, all major roads are wet and clear, but travel off the main roads onto the country roads and you find a very different story.

There you will find hard packed snow, slick with rain soaked ice, near impossible to drive on, and yes all the country runs in this county are cancelled for today.

Thank goodness!

Snow Days = Buses Cancelled

2008-12-07T09:03:00.000-08:00

Winter is really here now, regardless of the date.

We had our first real snow day this past week, and I expect there will be more this coming week if the "weather network" is right about the storm set to move in to our area this Monday night.

It seems some parents get very annoyed when bus cancellations are called.

This week one of our drivers was faced with an angry parent who felt the snow day was called for nothing and that the driver was at fault for not showing up.

Now I do understand that some parents will need to find other means of getting their kids to school or to find alternate baby sitters, but we drivers do not make the decision about snow days, and we do not need to be called down for the difficulties snow days may cause.

The board of education and the bus companies have only the safety of your child in mind when buses are cancelled, and these decisions are based on many factors.

In our area and many others I am sure, the mile around a home may be sunny and bright, but go just a bit further and you could find whiteout conditions and slippery ice.

The overall conditions are what need to be looked at, not just one or two blocks.

I have driven on days when conditions were poor and the roads were bad, and I recall a day when a parent was actually upset that the buses were not cancelled.

This parent felt the roads were to dangerous to drive on ... but that did not stop her from putting her child on the bus anyway ... ???

So who knows?

We drive when we're suppose to, and don't when we're told not to.

We just do our jobs the best we can.

Kindergarten Scare

2008-11-21T14:21:00.000-08:00

Well I'm done for the weekend and do not usually go online after work, but something happened this morning that needs to be told and this is the first chance I've had today.

The roads this morning were snow covered and slippery, and as I was approaching one particular stop I notices the youngest child a JK playing in the middle of the road along with his older siblings, in grade 3 and 5, and another child in grade 6.

They saw the bus coming and quickly moved to the spot they should be in and gathered up their things.

However as I got closer the Jk began to run towards the bus, and of course as he is so small he was quickly out of sight in one of my blind spots.

My poor heart leaped into my chest as I finally stopped several feet short of my usual stop spot, and as I opened my door there stood the little JK happy as all get out.

But I was not happy and gave the kids a stern talking to about staying where they are suppose to stay when waiting for the bus, and I told the older siblings to next time hang onto the little one, that what happened was very very dangerous.

I just shudder to think... my god! the kid could have slipped and fallen right under my tires.. or the bus could have slipped sideways and hit him.

But the real moral of the story here is it really makes me angry when parents leave little kids in the hands of siblings, dam... do they not understand that kids are kids,

Big or little it doesn't matter, they are all so full of life and the pure joy of living they do not see the dangers they place themselves in, let alone the dangers for other kids around them.

You cannot expect a child to mind another child while waiting for a bus, there are just to many distractions..... and parents, your little one may not be so lucky one day...

Please, get off your butt, walk your children to the bus stop, or send them with an adult who will watch out for them and make them obey the safety rules.

Bad Boy Goes Good

2008-11-18T07:11:00.000-08:00

Yesterday one of our drivers related this tale.

it seems this driver has a very active grade 2 student who needs frequent reminders on the bus and often is very impulsive.

Fortunately the driver and parents have a good relationship and work together to deal with problems.

Well on this particular morning the young lad was as good as gold, so very quiet and still.

That evening the youngster boarded the bus, and the driver told him he was suppose to wait for his parents to pick him up, a usual Monday event.

With that the boys face brightened and he said to the driver. " Oh ya I forgot, It's hockey practise tonight, that's why I had to be so good on the bus this morning or mom wouldn't let me go today, thanks bus driver see ya tomorrow". and with that he was away, leaving the bus driver shaking his head and smiling.

It seems this kid is always coming up with funny little things, and it just shows that even a problem child can give you a chuckle if you look for the bright side, and play down the bad side.

Another Friend From School Bus Fleet

2008-10-22T07:05:00.000-07:00

An editor at SCHOOL BUS FLEET magazine has kindly linked to this blog. Take a minute to visit them here

School Bus Circle Checks

2008-10-22T06:27:00.000-07:00

Brrrrr... wet snow yesterday Oct 21 2008, and then thick frost this morning .... yuk... I am not looking forward to this hint of weather to come.

Sometimes we drivers wish we could just forget about our circle checks on cold miserable mornings, but we all know how important the safe running of our buses is especially when we get into the bad weather days.

Full working lights, help us be seen in fog and snow, perfectly working brakes and good inflated tires will help keep us from slipping or getting stuck in muck, slush or snow.

Clear clean mirrors, working heaters, defoggers, and wipers allow us to see outside our buses, and all the areas around us.

And a good working horn allows us to warn others of pending danger.

Clear working emergency doors, and windows plus other safety equipment we routinely check are there and available in the event of an accident.

You just never know when or where an accident or breakdown could find you.

Safety is always our number one concern, and we do our best to insure the safety of our passengers by preforming a full circle check on our buses each and every day.

Student Behaviour On School Charters

2008-10-02T07:22:00.000-07:00

Over the last couple weeks I and other drivers have taken school students on various charters.

One newer driver asked me who is responsible for the behaviour on the bus.

While I suppose different schools and companies may have a policy on bus behaviour when on a charter, I myself always keep watch of the students on my bus.

If the teachers and or parents do not keep the kids safely in their seats, then I do tell the kids to sit down and to keep the aisles clear.

On occasion I have even pulled over and waited until everyone was sitting properly before continuing on a trip.

Usually just one comment from me makes the person in charge take better notice of the kids behaviour.

But we drivers must be fair, remember, not all kids, teachers or parents know the bus rules, nor do they understand the possible dangers that could occur when the safety rules are not followed.

We sometimes need to teach them our bus safety rules as we go about our jobs.

Please teachers, parents, and caregivers, help your bus driver keep these outing a safe, happy experience for all.

You need to be aware of possible dangers in and around the bus, and you need to be responsible for the safety of the kids in your care.

As for me, I prefer to be safe rather than sorry after a child gets hurt, and if that makes me a mean bus driver, than that's fine with me too.

Another Bus Driver Blog

2008-09-11T10:36:00.000-07:00

A bus driver by the name of Ana emailed me, and invited me to take a look at her blog at http://badbuses.blogspot.com/

It appears she is from Georgia, and is having problems with her kids and company, same as many of us are.

Pop over to Ana's before you leave here, and show her some support too.

As always I welcome input from all school bus drivers everywhere.

From a First Student Cologne, New Jersey USA driver

2008-09-07T07:46:00.000-07:00

Our shop in Cologne , New Jersey USA voted the union in on April 18 08.
First Student is dragging it's feet on the contract negotiating. We don't even
have another meeting date set.

They tried as best as they could to keep the union out with making it look
blatant.

Out of 223 employees I was only one of three people who had the union
meetings at out homes ,and our manager tried repeatedly to make my life hell.

The day after 8 or 9 of us came out for the first time publicly by wearing
Teamsters T-shirts at a driver meeting he removed me from my runs claiming I had hit a mail box. He said I was suspended with pay.

Even after I had a police report in hand confirming what I had all ready told him that I did not hit the mail box he would not put me back on my runs. I only got back on after three weeks when I confronted him face to face with the fact that the drivers and I knew he was doing was because of my union actives. HE NEVER DID GIVE ME MY BACK PAY!. Actually what he did just polarized the drivers more than ever
before to vote yes for the union. Everybody knew what he was doing to me and if
it could happen to me it could happen to anybody.

He even tried to set me up as a no show the day before the vote to have an
excuse to fire me and intimidate the other drivers and influence the vote. I never though much about having a union until First Student took over this
Cologne , NJ location.

The bottom line is they won't be fair to the drivers until they are forced
to.

Sincerely,

Dannielle French

Harding Highway.

Mayslanding , NJ 08330

Hospital issues school safety tips for drivers

2008-09-02T08:09:00.000-07:00

This story was found in The Sudbury Star

Hospital issues school safety tips for drivers

With school just about to begin, it’s a good time for motorists remember they need to take extra care, the Emergency Department of Sudbury Regional Hospital says.

"The consequences of passing a school bus with its lights flashing are very real and can be tragic,” Dr. Chris Bourdon, medical director of the Emergency Department, said in a release.

“It is important to take the responsibility that goes with the privilege of having a driver's license seriously, and exercise maturity and caution on our roads."

As school for primary and secondary school students begins, students may be so excited by the first day of classes that they forget important safety rules with regard to road safety, the hospital said.

As a result, in order to avoid tragedy, drivers are encouraged to remain vigilant and keep a watchful eye for students playing along roadways or near schools, and particularly when disembarking from school buses.

Reduce speed near schools and playgrounds, give children on bicycles or any other wheeled toys a wide berth, and always stop for a school bus with lights flashing regardless of the direction in which you are travelling.

Welcome Back 2008 - 2009

2008-09-02T07:26:00.000-07:00

Welcome back all school bus drivers, parents and kids.

Today a new school year has begun and this year I will be welcoming 4 new JK's to my bus.

I just love these little ones.

I love watching as they take their first rides away from home, watching anxious parents clicking cameras to capture that first special moment forever.

But some parents look like we may be taking their babies away for ever.

Please relax parents. We drivers will keep your child safe, and promise to return them at days end.

And as always I want to remind all drivers to be extra cautious now that so many kids are out and about, not only waiting for buses but also the ones that are walking or biking along.

Kids are kids and are often more involved in whatever game or conversation they may be having, rather than in watching traffic, and remember, kids can move quickly.

On a happy note the first morning run this morning here, saw bright sunshine and warming temperature.

Some minor confusion as kids found their seats, but overall it was a good morning run.

Summer Safety

2008-07-13T14:56:00.000-07:00

As always I ask that all drivers remember that kids are everywhere now and are often to busy having a good time to be cautious.

Be aware, be alert, be prepared.

Expect the unexpected.

We want all the kids back safe and sound in September.

Quick Update

2008-07-13T14:50:00.000-07:00

Well I haven't posted for a while. I have been away dealing with some personal tragedies.

I do not know what is happening with the wages, and likely will have no more news before September.

I admit I am very discouraged at the moment and can only hope things will improve.

I also wanted to thank the friends and parents for their kind words and thoughts over the last couple of weeks.

Bless you.

First Student Wiarton Drivers

2008-06-06T09:23:00.000-07:00

Shall wonders never cease!!

Management has finally agreed to sit down and look at the new rates proposed by our labour management committee.

After more than a year of being largely ignored several members of the original committee became frustrated and quit.

Hopefully this time the committee will be shown some respect for their efforts, and be able to reach an agreement.

The Wiarton proposal is very near the same as the contract signed by the Owen Sound branch, and should be easily accepted.

The committee is calling a drivers meeting early next week to be sure the committee has their support.

For drivers that do not attend this meeting, I can only say shame on you.

Better working conditions and better wages need to be worked for and the committee doing that work need to hear from you and to be supported in what they are trying to accomplish.

So come on people, come on out and get it done.

I'll see you at the meeting.

Today's Bus Safety Question.

2008-05-30T06:53:00.000-07:00

Why are food and drinks not allowed on school buses?

Food and drinks are not allowed on school buses for two very good reasons.

1- Some children are highly allergic to certain foods and could be in serious trouble if exposed to the wrong things.

Most people know that products containing nuts or shell fish can cause problems, but so can a wide range of other foods like strawberries for instance.

The driver and other kids do not always know what could cause a problem, and therefore it is safest if no foods are offered or consumed on the bus.

2- As the bus is bouncing along a child could choke on drinks, food or candies, while the driver, busy with the roads as they should be, could very well be unaware of the problem until it is far to late.

Kids are kids and don't see the danger, and will continue to try and sneak eats and treats on the bus.

But as parents, teachers, and drivers we need to make the kids aware of the possible severe consequences that could occur when eating or drinking on the bus.

No the drivers are not being mean when they say no food or drinks, they are simply enforcing a policy that ensures extra safety for all.

Is School Bus Driving A Good Job?

2008-05-22T07:42:00.000-07:00

Is School Bus Driving A Good Job?

That was the question I was asked this morning when I stopped at the store on my way home, and I really had to think about it for just a moment.

Truth is for the most part I would say YES it is a good job.

For the person that still has young kids at home it allows you to take the kiddies with you saving you the cost of a babysitter.

For the retired or semi retired person, it gives you a reason to get up and get going each day.

Then their are some extra benefits such as, maybe not needing to drive your own car to work if you have room to park a bus at home, or being able to make quick stops or run short errands after your run.

Most bus companies do not mind these little extra activities so long as the stops do not take you more than a block or two out of your way.

And besides, what other job gives you so many holidays?

To be a bus driver you do need to like kids, and you do need to have patience. (OK ... so maybe some days you might also wish to be partially deaf :-0)

You also need to be firm but fair with the kids you transport. Learning to drive a bus is not that hard, especially with most buses now being automatics instead of standards.

Nearly anyone with a valid licence, a clean record, and a bit of brains has a good chance of getting a job driving a school bus.

Different bus companies do have different policies and pay scales, and you would need to see what is available in your area, but yes for the most part I would definitely say driving a school bus is a pretty good job.

May Days

2008-05-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

May can be a great month.

Usually warm and sunny, May helps chase the rainy cold days away.

Kids are often seen running about, riding their bikes, skipping along, or bouncing their balls.

Most seem lost in the pure joy of childhood.

For drivers much extra care needs to be taken, as we too can be a little smitten by the warming days, our thoughts may drift to the garden we are planting or thinking about the nice barbecue party to come.

We bus drivers need to keep our focus on the road ahead, we need to watch carefully for the unexpected movements of kids on the edges of roadways, and the lack of attention that other drivers lost in their own thought may have.

Parents need to frequently remind their kids that the roadway is unsafe and to pay attention to traffic at all times.

Yes May can be great .... but not if you fail to make it to June!

Please, play safe, be safe, stay safe.

Today's Bus Safety Question

2008-05-09T10:06:00.000-07:00

Why is it unsafe to stand up when the bus is moving?

The bus could stop or slow down quickly, causing a child who is standing to fall.

It also makes it difficult for the driver to see the back of the bus.

Parents please remind your child to remain in their seat until the bus comes to a full stop at all times.

First Student Drivers

2008-05-05T07:29:00.000-07:00

If your a First Student driver please share your experience with the company.

Let us know how long you have been driving, if your shop is union, and if things are better or worse were you are.

Please post your comments under First Student Updates so we can keep all the comments together.

Maybe if we get together and voice our complaints and praises (if any) someone will finally take notice.

Maybe a newspaper or two would like this story if enough drivers contribute their experiences.

Most people do not realize just how poorly us pros are treated.

I know a lot of our drivers here are planning on leaving and have no intention of returning in the fall.

We are all tired of working short handed, with no extra thanks or $$$$ to show for it.

A Tidy Trick

2008-04-28T11:20:00.000-07:00

Just recently one of our drivers related this neat trick he used to impress the students on his bus with how important it is to keep the bus tidy.

As this driver was driving along he noticed some round yellow beads rolling up the floor.

We all know these can be dangerous as a person could very easily slip and fall on these little things or they could get under the drivers feet causing even greater problems.

Well this driver had spoken to the kids on several occasions about the need to keep things off the floor, but apparently some did not take him serious.

Rather than scold the kids yet again this driver promptly pulled off the road and shut off the bus.

He then got out the broom and began sweeping the bus.

Now some of the kids wanted to know why he choose now to sweep the bus as they wanted to be getting home in a hurry.

The driver explained the danger of the little bee-bees rolling around and stated they could not continue until all were picked up.

Quickly the students began to gather the bee-bees, and one student offered to take the ones the driver had swept up as well, but "no" said the driver these bee-bees are now the property of First Student as they were left on the floor, and all would be disposed of in the trash can as soon as possible.

The boys face turned red but he said nothing more.

The driver once satisfied that all was cleaned up, happily continued the trip home, and at last report was happy to say that no more bee-bees have showed up on the bus.

Smooth move bus Mr driver!

Today's Bus Safety Question & Answer

2008-04-16T08:08:00.000-07:00

Why should children stand at least 15 feet back from the bus stop?

By always keeping back 15 feet, the driver will be able to see the children, and all activity or accidental pushing or shoving will not result in children being accidentally caught out on the roadway, or caught out in the buses danger zones.

Elmer The Elephant School Bus Safety

2008-04-16T07:38:00.000-07:00

Elmer The Elephant, is probably one of the most recognized safety characters in Canada.

School children everywhere know and love this smart little guy.

Click Here for some cool Elmer pages, you can print out for your children. This is a fun way to help them learn and remember the school bus safety rules.

A Little Care

2008-04-15T07:07:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we drivers can run into difficult children, and sometimes we find ourselves at the end of our wits.

But we need to step back, and just remain calm because we never know what difficulties a child may have outside the confines of our buses.

As an example I have a little grade one child who was very, very active on my bus.

This child needed constant reminders to stay on their seat, and still was over the backs, under the seats and up the aisle without a moments notice.

No amount of talking ever helped, sitting with an older child only did not help, and the school was having problems as well.

My solution was to reward the child, while also keeping the child occupied on the bus.

First I spent a couple bucks at our local dollar store (love the dollar store) to stock a small bag with coloring books, activity books and a neat little items like a little book like board that had magnetic characters that could be moved around the board creating a neat little play area.

Then I let the little ones know that my toy bag was very special, but IF you stay in your seat and played very quietly, then I would allow then to use and shared my toy bag while riding on the bus

My toys fast became a very popular item on my bus and helped not only this child to remain seated and calm but also encouraged other little ones to be good as well.

None wanted to miss what new secrets my toy bag might hold, (yes I change the content now and then)

But by not centering out the misbehaviour of one child, and encouraging fair play amongst peers this simple solution helped all the little ones to do better.

First Student Update -

2008-04-10T08:38:00.000-07:00

Well I can't say I'm real happy right now.

As a driver who is subjected to ongoing intensive training, who is carrying a huge load of responsibility for both the vehicle we drive and the passengers we carry I think we are grossly underpaid, and it doesn't look like this will change any time soon.

In our area we are paid by the run, based on some mysterious formula that none of us can figure out.

The rate is suppose to cover not only the actual time spent picking up students but also the time spent for our pre trip inspection,(absolutely required) time to get to and from the run and time to clean up the bus after the run.(also required)

What I do know after talking with other drivers is that our wages range from about 8.59 to 9.95 per hour for our basic run.

Our standard rate while attending workshops is 9.30, charters are usually 10.30

Now Ontario has recently adjusted our minimum wage scale from $8.00 to $8.75, that means that some of us drivers are not even making minimum wage on our runs and all our training no longer gets us 1.30 over minimum wage but just .55!

That's not much incentive to put up with all the hassles and responsibility that we are expected to take care of.

Consider these facts

Last year I got a tiny raise, this year my run is longer with more students, but I got no raise because according to the mysterious formula used by First Student (formerly Laidlaw) I am making to much money!!

Now with the minimum wage increase I really feel like I have lost money.

Worst yet some of our drivers actually had a pay decrease this year!

At least one driver I personally know of was hit with a $7.00 a day decrease.

And someone somewhere thinks this is fair pay for professional drivers?

I don't think so.

Sleeping Children

2008-04-10T08:33:00.000-07:00

One of the biggest complaints lately seems to be the problem of children sleeping on the buses and drivers not realizing they are there.

If we all check and double check our buses at every school, and at the end of every run there is no excuse for a sleeping child to be left on a bus.

Personally I fully support a policy that dismisses drivers that have left sleeping children on a school bus.

There is no reason for it to happen and no excuse good enough for when it does happen.

Spring Has Sprung

2008-04-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

Well its officially spring, and the birds are singing everywhere. People are coming out of hibernation and so many seem a bit befuddled in the brain.

This is a time when we bus driver really need to pay extra attention. Drivers and pedestrians both seem to go around in a daze with the first few warm days.

Just yesterday I watched a nearly nasty accident.

I was sitting at a stop sign and directly across from me was a lady in a car also stopped, the road crossing in front of us is a right of way for traffic, and two cars were about to make a left turn taking them past the lady across from me and traveling in the same direction I would be going, without warning the first vehicle to make the left turn, turned on the far right of the lady actually barely missing her on her passengers side the second car turned correctly to her left side but nearly collided with the first car that had made the incorrect turn,

The poor lady was so shocked as was I that we both just sat there shaking our heads then suddenly the lady begins to move forward without taking her eyes off me, and there to the right was another school bus just entering the intersection I covered my eyes expecting the worst but the bus manages to get around her or maybe she stopped just in time.

I see these kind of things happening all around and it's clear that people are just not thinking the way they should be.

I believe that all accidents can be avoided if we all practise consciences driving.

Don't let your mind wander when behind the wheel.
Wiggle and move to keep your blind spots in view
And always be prepared to yield the right of way.

Safety, safety, safety!!!!

OOPS!!

2008-04-10T07:57:00.000-07:00

Looks like I have neglected this blog for a bit... but I have had a rough winter.

Christmas came and went without much fanfare this year, and February found me laid up with cracked ribs. (fell off a chair)

Dam... got to be more careful!!

Driver Appreiciation Awards 2007

2007-11-30T09:50:00.000-08:00

Last week we had our driver appreciation dinner.

A great meal was served up by the Waterview Motel in Wiarton and a good time was had by all.

While we do have a large number of new drivers and a good number of drivers with 2 - 10 years safe driving records, we also were proud to say that awards were given to our long time drivers sporting, 19, 29, and 35 years of accident free driving.

This shows the care and commitment that these drivers have not only to their jobs, but the passengers that they carry.

Way to go people, you are truly the best of the best.

Winter Safety

2007-11-30T07:56:00.000-08:00

Winter has definitely arrived. The driving yesterday and this morning in our area of Ontario, was a real test of our driving skills, with high winds and snow squalls causing near zero visibility at times.

As drivers we sit by the radio each morning listening for cancellation and checking our local road conditions. We listen and wait while hoping it's not as bad out there as it sometimes looks.

On days like this I wonder why anyone would want to drive a school bus, but drive we do and safety as always is our main concern.

We need to remind the kids that buses do slide even when going very slow, and they need to remember to stand well back and away when waiting for the bus. Wait safely until the bus has come to a complete stop.

Parents and Drivers need to get tough about no pushing, or running towards the bus especially during bad weather days.

Remember, with just one little slip and someone could end up under your wheels.

And parents, PLEASE, PLEASE, hang onto those extra little tykes that accompany you to the bus stop each morning.

We drivers do our best to be aware of everything and everyone around us, but their are a lot of blind spots from where we sit inside that bus, and you need to be aware of where your child is and what they are doing out there too.

Kids are impulsive and they are fast, so again please be aware, and insist that they stay away from the bus unless boarding, keep watching the bus until it leaves, and always play safe.

As drivers we need to slow down and drive according to the road conditions.

Always remember "you are never late".

You may want to head out a bit earlier to get to the beginning of your route on time, but once your first pickup is on your arrival at school time will be dictated by your safest driving speed.

New drivers may feel pressured to make the school on time, but believe me when I tell you that no school, or bus company would ever complain about you being behind schedule when the roads are bad.

Everyone involved knows that safety comes first, and if its not safe, you just don't do it.

Nobody Knows Where Our Bus Driver Goes

2007-10-20T21:33:00.000-07:00

I just love funny bus stories, jokes, and songs.

Click Here to listen to this cute song

Words: Jeff Mondak
Music: Alex Stangl
Arranged and played by Alex Stangl

Great Job Guys

Bye -Bye Laidlaw!

2007-10-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

Well it's official..Laidlaw has been sold and we are now to be managed under the name of First Student.

This is the fourth time in the last 6 years our little local branch has undergone new management.

We originally were part of a small family owned bus company that got sold to a larger family owned company, that got sold to the big Laidlaw corporation, and now to this huge global First Group conglomerate...

Are we happy about it?

Well that remains to be seen. It will take many months before the real changes filter down to our little neck of the woods.

The last take over was pretty rough for a lot of us, and our driver turn over is very high.

Unfair wages have been a huge issue in our area, and the long waits to have our buses repaired continues to be a sore spot with alot of us drivers.

Meanwhile some of the unbendable Laidlaw policies brought down thru the ranks caused a lot of tension and unnessesary grief for several employees. (you guys know who you are)

We do wonder how much was really Laidlaw, or maybe the problem lie but a level or two above our own branch.

In truth the larger a corporation, the more of a number instead of a person you become.

So we will have to wait and see what First Student will do, for us drivers and for the kids we care for each day.

We can only hope that someone from above will actually see and do something constructive to make our jobs as safe, pleasant and professional as we all want them to be.

Back Packs Can Be Dangerous

2007-10-09T10:38:00.000-07:00

Last week I discovered that those handy backpacks that all the kids are using can be dangerous.

Let me explain.

It was pick up time at the school and as usual all the kids are rushing to get on the bus, and I as usual am trying to make sure that all my little darlings are on the bus before leaving the school.

Busily I was checking off names when one of my grade four students pushed up to me and said "someone has something tied around their neck".

Well I jumped out of my seat to see what was going on and found one of my kindergarten kids had turned his backpack upside down and used the adjustable straps found there to tie his pack around his neck.

Oh my lord It scared me to death.. the knot had been pulled very tight and there was no way to untie the stupid thing!

Fortunately the pack had also been twisted, and I was able to untwist it and lift the loop over the child's head.

In this instance the child had a bit of a red mark, and while certainly scared, was not hurt.

But it made me realize that this is something that should be addressed.

If your a parent with backpacking kids be sure to check those adjustment straps.

These are the straps used to adjust the shoulder straps and usually have some extra hanging down.

Cut off that extra length, and or sew them down tight.

Remember, .. next time it could be your little one, and they might not be as lucky!

Stinky Starts

2007-09-13T10:48:00.000-07:00

My husband just started driving bus this past March and was offered a charter towords the last part of the summer.

He gladly accepted the charter, and was given our branch trainers nice new bus to do it with.

All went well with the evening, and he was returning the bus to the shop when a suicidal skunk crosses his path.

Well the skunk was no match for the bus, and unfortunatly the worst was done.

Not only did he return a stinking bus for our trainer to start school with, but the story was picked up by our local papers when the entire town reeked of skunk!

Sorry Maria, but we don't think the air freshener is helping very much!

Kindergarten - A New Experience

2007-08-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

Getting new students on your bus is always an adventure, will these new ones get along with the other kids, or do you need to prepare for the worst.

My personal favorites are the new kindergarten kids.

Most are very quiet and shy when they first get on the bus, but some will scream or cry when leaving their parents behind.

As a driver you must be prepared for both types.

You will also need to be patient with the parents of kindergarten kids, especially if this is their first child going off to school.

These parents often are feeling insecure about their babies going out into the big bad world without their protection.

They often feel they are handing over their most treasured gifts to the care of a total stranger(you)

This is a huge leap of faith and trust for many parents and children, and you as a driver need to remain patient, calm and friendly to make the transition as easy and painless as possible

Be prepared to answer parents questions.

When will my child get home?
Will they get to class alright?
Can Johnny have a treat if he gets on the bus?

Helped young children to adjust to the bus by

Greeting them in a soft friendly tone.
Sit them with an older sibling if available, until they are comfortable on their own.
If it's a long ride from their stop to the school a picture book, coloring book, of soft teddy to hold can help ease the stress of separation for a young child.
Tell them what a good job they did while riding the bus.
Assure them that you will come back to bring them home at the end of the day.

Above all, just keep smiling .... after all, they aren't "new" to this bus thing for very long.

New School Year - 2007 - 2008

2007-08-30T07:29:00.000-07:00

Summer is nearly finished, and we are very busy getting ready for the new school year.

I spent the last 2 days helping our local branch bring buses back from the main yard located almost an hour from here, and our start up meeting held yesterday, showed us several new policies we need to implement.

Our log books will require more information than ever before, and these changes will force drivers to be not only more aware of defects found on their buses, but force them to report these defects promptly.

As upper management is making our drivers not only more responsible, but also accountable for their buses, we drivers will likely be more and more insistent that maintenance and repairs be preformed promptly in order to cover our own butts.

Is this a good thing?

In the long run...probably.

I think everyone needs to be aware of what is safe, and what is not, and I personally believe anything that affects the safe operation of a school bus needs to be addresses immediately.

The problem I see here at our local branch, is the huge amount of time our buses are taking to be repaired.

Before the take over by Laidlaw, our buses were maintained and repaired at our local shop.

We were once able to communicate directly with our own local mechanic.

A mechanic that knew all of our buses inside and out.

We could instantly consult with him about the strange little quirks or nuisances, that all buses can present.

We could find out easily if a real problem was starting, or we were often able to corrected a problem before it became a major repair.

As an example.

A few years ago I was driving a 98' ford bus.

I was stopped at the school waiting for my students when a brake warning buzzer started, the noise was horrid, and I was worried the brakes may be failing.

The shop was just around the corner, so I went over to have our mechanic take a quick look and tell me if I needed to take out a spare bus.

Turns out the brakes were fine, it was just a censor that was defective and the mechanic had it fixed within minutes, and I was back to the school in time to get my kids.

Now our buses must travel nearly an hour to the main branch, before they are evaluated by over worked mechanics who must service several branches, and over a hundred buses.

My bus that took minutes to evaluate and repair a few years back, today would be gone for at least a day and maybe a week for the same repair service.

As drivers we get familiar and comfortable with the way our own bus will handle in any given situation, and are safest when driving our own buses.

This system of sending buses so far away, in my opinion has created has additional safety concerns for all of us.

Last year we has so many buses were out for service or repair at the same time that we really didn't have any decent buses left to use at our local branch.

With the new "driver is accountable" policies, we drivers are in a position where we will need to refuse to drive any bus that is less than perfect in order to protect ourselves.

Theoretically we could be given a bus to drive that is pure junk ( as did happen last year) and under current policies, then be suspended for actually driving it!!

I really cannot believe that it is better or more cost efficient for the corporation to transport buses so far from home for simple maintenance or repairs.

I would bet that the fuel savings alone would offset the cost of re-staffing our local service bays, never mind the wasted daily man hours transporting empty buses back and forth.

Faster service and repairs, would help take the strain off our very limited spare bus pool and our drivers.

"Wake up Laidlaw" ... you say.... SAFETY FIRST... we agree....

stop putting us in difficult to deal with situations,

we want to do a good job,
we want to drive safe buses,
we want to drive our own safe buses,

Not the left over junk we get stuck with when your main shop is flooded with repairs and over booked.

Our own dispatch is still here, our own fuel tanks are still here, our own empty garage bays are still here, so why aren't our own mechanics?

School Bus Driver Attack!!

2007-07-13T08:47:00.001-07:00

I found this video of a Florida school bus driver being caught on tape hitting one of the students.

Be sure your sound is turned on!

Running time 1:26

How many times do things like this happen to bus drivers everywhere.

It's true the kids are behaving badly, but the driver needed to stay calm and in control.

It can be hard for drivers to build a good rapport with difficult students, sometimes we may be pushed to the point of explosion, as this driver was.

We need to try harder to ignore the harassment and verbal assaults that are unfortunately becoming more common on our buses these days.

We need to report all bad behavior to the schools, and to our bus companies.

We need to have their support and to know that discipline will be doled out appropriately.

This needs to be done to ensure the safety and sanity of everyone on the school bus

And certainly we should never take the matter into our own hands, as this driver has done.

This reaction from just one driver in a fleet gives all of us a bad name.

Glouster County School Bus Driver Get Pay Increase

2007-07-13T08:31:00.000-07:00

Persistence paid off for Gloucester County's school bus drivers, winning them a pay increase of 1.5 percent from the School Board.

"We go through hours of training and testing to acquire a mandatory commercial driver's license," driver Terri Miller told the board before its unanimous vote Tuesday. "As long as we are employed as a school bus driver, any driving incident that we may be involved in can cost us our (license) and our job."
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Good for Gloster!!!
It sure would be nice to see an increase at my local school bus company

Bus Driver Stories

2007-07-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

As this site developes, I would like to collect stories about things that have happened on your school bus.

Please send your stories here

How Safe Are School Buses

2007-07-11T13:35:00.000-07:00

School buses are our roads from September to June

As drivers, when we see the flashing lights, we watch more carefully, and as parents we trust that our children are safe.

But what do we really know about school buses? As drivers and parents, how much do we know about their safety features?

Here is some information about the safety of school buses.

A school bus is a vehicle used mainly in Canada and the United States to transport large numbers of children safely to and from school.

The size and weight of the vehicle and the safety features designed into it offer substantial protection to bus occupants in the event of a collision.

Despite the large number of children transported and the distances travelled, serious injuries and fatalities are very rare.

The greatest risk to the safety of children is actually outside the bus, either from the bus itself or from the surrounding traffic.

To address these dangers, buses are painted a vivid shade of yellow to make them stand out.

They have warning lights on the front and rear to indicate to drivers of other vehicles that the bus is stopped or stopping, and that their may be children on the road.

The bus also has a stop arm on the left-hand side to warn motorists that children are entering or leaving the bus and it is equipped with special mirrors.

Many buses have a pedestrian crossing control arm so that children will cross far enough in front of the bus so that the bus driver can see them.

The interior of the bus has is also designed to protect the children in case of a collision.

Inside there are no sharp objects and the roof and side walls are reinforced and very strong.

Each seat is designed to protect the child without the use of a seat belt.

This system, called compartmentalization provides excellent protection.

The key to compartmentalization is that the back of each seat is padded, and is a specific distance from the seat behind it.

By not using a seat belt during a collision, a child’s body is able to slide forward to hit the seat back in such a way as to distribute the force of the impact over the entire upper body.

If a seat belt was used, the child’s body might turn on the belt, focusing the force of the blow onto the head and neck.

In addition, if the seat belt is not worn correctly (it should be worn low on the hips) the stomach and or spine could be damaged.

The protection of children will always be of the greatest concern to all, and even as our buses are very safe today, you can always count on tomorrow to bring even newer and better regulations and systems to use.

Bus Drivers Please Drive Safely

2007-07-11T13:07:00.000-07:00

We all feel that we are professional drivers, but even the best of us can find our mind wandering as we ample down the familiar roads.

We need to remind ourselves of the dangers around us, and concentrate on our jobs.

Here is a reminder to all drivers for safe driving

Aim High in Steering

The average driver looks only 3 to 6 seconds ahead. This leads to tailgating, last second lane changes, and excessive braking.

Aiming high in steering means looking at least 15 seconds in the future.

This allows you to analyze the traffic ahead in a relaxed, efficient manner.

Keep your Eyes Moving

The big picture is always changing. Don't focus on one object and miss others.

Maximize your use of peripheral vision by keeping your eyes moving every 2 seconds.

Check all your mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds.

Get the Big Picture

Position yourself so you can see everything that may cause safety problems.

Follow the 4 second distance rule at all times.

Allow even more time when driving in poor weather or in reduced visibility.

Leave Yourself an Out

Surround your vehicle with a "space cushion".

Avoid traveling in vehicle packs which can lead to last second decisions.

If something gets in your space cushion, adjust your speed to regain the lost space.

When stopped behind other vehicles, leave enough room to move around the other vehicle if it stops or stalls.

Make Sure they See You

Use your signals and warning devices.

Signal early.

Use your horn if necessary to get attention..

Backing Is Dangerous

Avoid backing if possible.

Ask for assistance when possible.

If you are not 100% sure the area behind you is clear, Do Not Move!

School Bus Safety - It Always Starts With You

2007-07-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

Kids - Stay Safe.

Injuries to school bus passengers are thankfully rare, and most of them happen when students are boarding or leaving the bus and or crossing the street.

Please always remember these safety rules:

Be at the school bus stop on time.
Wait in a safe place well back from the edge of the road.
Do not play in ditches or on snowbanks.
Enter the bus in single file holding the hand rail.
Find a seat right away and stay seated facing forward at all times.
Do not place things in the aisle.
Avoid rowdy behaviour.
Do not throw things or eat or drink in the bus.
Keep your arms and head inside the bus.
Never distract the bus driver. Always follow his or her instructions.
When you leave the bus, move away from the side. If you can touch the bus, you are too close.
If you drop something near the bus, never try to pick it up because its quite likely the bus driver can't see you. Ask an adult or the driver to help.
If you must cross the street to get on or off the bus:
Walk at least 10 big steps in front of the bus, and look at the driver for a signal before crossing.
Look all ways before crossing the road.
Walk, never run, to the other side of the road from the bus stop

Parents please go over these rules with your children again and again and again.

Heros

2007-07-11T12:43:00.000-07:00

There are heroes in our land today that never receive any recognition.
Some of these are a child's first acquaintance with education.

Now a teacher might be the first one who comes to our mind,
But I speak of the bus driver for which the kids wait in line.

For a moment, put yourself in the bus driver's shoes,
And I'm sure you will find that it's a job you might not want to choose.

Just think what it would be like to baby sit for sixty kids or better
And remember you must chauffeur this bus load of kids regardless of the weather.

I must admit, to be in front of a classroom with 20-30 kids wouldn't be a picnic,
But to drive 60 kids over icy roads would set my nerves on edge and make my stomach sick.

A school bus driver is like a postman and must go regardless of rain, snow, gloom and darkest of night
But no postman ever had to have 60 kids, clean up their mess, or break up a fight.

A child can have a bad day at school without any warning,
But can be forgotten when a bus driver says, "Have a good evening, I'll see you in the morning"

Ask any student, what heroes of their never received any fame,
And I'll bet a bus driver will be among those that they name.

This poem was written by David Arnold, a custodian in Brownstown, Illinois, 75 miles east of St. Louis.Dave.

Bicyclist Rides Bus Driver For Making Too Many Stops

2007-07-11T12:07:00.000-07:00

A 36-year-old Poulsbo resident was released after he lost his temper with a school bus driver for stopping too often and interrupting his bike ride.

According to County Sheriff?s Office, the bicyclist became irate after the school bus forced him to stop several times, saying it was difficult to build up speed on his bike and that the bus kept cutting him off.

Deputies reported the man felt the bus driver was doing it intentionally.

The man threw his bike in a nearby ditch after losing his temper, and attempted to gain access to the bus.

The bus driver closed the doors, but the man continued to hit the windows and yell at her.

The man was released at the scene after admitting he probably didn?t handle the situation as well as he could have, deputies said.

A Bus Drivers Prayer - Author Unknown

2007-07-11T11:44:00.000-07:00

Please, Lord, watch me this day.

Please help me remember to watch all five mirrors, two dozen windows, eight gauges, six warning lights, six dozen faces, three lanes of traffic and to keep a third eye open for wobbling bicycles and daydreaming pedestrians, especially teen-agers wearing headsets who are in another world.

Please Lord, help me hear all train whistles, truck and automobile horns, police sirens and the two-way radio.

Please also let me hear when one of my students calls for me, and just needs a listening ear.

Please Lord, give me a hand for the gear lever, the steering wheel, the route book, the radio microphone and the turn-signal lever, while being able to hand out kleenexes, pencils, or other things the kids may need.

And Lord, please grant me the self-control to keep my hands away from Johnny's neck when he's pinching and biting Billy, while trying to keep everybody in their seat, and reminding them that sticking their head outside the window is not safe.

And one more thing, dear Lord, please don't let Mary be sick all over the bus.

And finally Lord, please watch over us all so that we can do it again next year.

AMEN

Joke 2

2007-07-11T11:27:00.000-07:00

There was this guy who just got a new job as a school bus driver for elementary school children.

He thought it would be nice to paint the school bus with characters from Sesame Street. So, he painted Bert and Ernie, Big Bird, The Cookie Monster and so forth.

At his first stop, there was this very overweight little girl. He opened the door and said, "Hi, I'm the new bus driver. What's your name?"

The girl said that her name was Pattie.

Waiting at the next stop was another overweight little girl. He said, "Hi, I'm the new bus driver. What's your name?"

She said that her name was Pattie also.

At the next stop, there was a grown woman and a little boy. The bus driver said, "Hi, I'm the new bus driver. What's your name?"

The woman piped up and said, "His name is Ross and he is my son." She continued, "He is very, very special, so I want you to take extra good care of him." The bus driver replied,

"No problem. He can have this seat right behind me and I can watch him in the mirror."

At the next stop, there was this little country boy standing there. The little boy was wearing tattered overalls and had no shoes or socks on his feet. The poor little boy had problems walking because of bunions all over his feet. The bus driver said, "Hi, I'm the new bus driver. What's your name?"

The little boy replied, "My name is Lester Cleese." Well, little Lester picked at his bunions all the way to the school house, nearly driving the driver crazy.

At home later that night, his wife asked him how his first day on the new job was. The man replied, "Well, I had Two Obese Patties, with Special Ross, and Lester Cleese Picking Bunions On A Sesame Street Bus."

Joke 1

2007-07-11T11:24:00.000-07:00

One day a little boy gets on a bus and sits behind the bus driver.

He starts saying things like: "If my Mom was a hen and my dad was a rooster, I would be a little rooster," the bus driver told him to quiet down!

Still the boy went on ... "If my Mom was a female elephant and my dad was a male elephant, I would be a little male elephant," the bus driver getting annoyed told the boy to shut up!

Still the boy went on ... "If my Mom was a female dog and my dad was a male dog, I would be a little male dog."The bus driver finally mad, asked him: "If your Mom was a prostitute, and your dad was a homo, what would you be?"

The boy answered: "A school bus driver!"