Transportation Procedures
On this page, you'll find important procedures that guide our bus operations, from safety to guidelines. We prioritize the well-being of every student and strive to maintain an organized and reliable transportation system. Please review these procedures to ensure a smooth experience for your child and to stay informed about bus routes, safety rules, and our procedures.
Important Bus Information
- Bus Conduct
- Bus Rules
- Disciplinary Procedures
- Riding Home with a Friend
- Lost and Found Items
- Weather Related School Closings
Bus Conduct
The school bus is an extension of the school and a privilege; therefore, students shall conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with the established standards for safety and classroom behavior. Students are under the supervision and control of the bus driver while on the bus, and all reasonable directions shall be followed.
The principal/designee of the student transported shall be informed by the bus driver of any serious discipline problem and may be called upon to assist if necessary. A student may be denied the privilege of riding the bus if the principal/designee determines that the behavior is such as to cause disruption on the bus or if s/he disobeys state or local rules pertaining to transportation. The Director of Transportation may issue disciplinary consequences for any conduct that impedes the safe operation of a school bus.
Any student who gets off the bus at any point between the pick-up point and the school must present the bus driver with a note of authorization from the parent and signed by the principal/designee of the school that the student attends. Any student wishing to ride a bus other than his/her designated bus must have written permission from the parent and approval of the principal/designee.
Bus Rules
Safe and dependable pupil transportation requires constant team effort from all those involved in the process. These rules are designed to describe for students and parents the behaviors, which will result in a safe and satisfactory school bus trip. It is of great concern to all of us that each child is safe every day. Teachers are requested to spend sufficient time during the school day to see that all pupils are thoroughly familiar with the school bus safety rules listed below. It is expected that students be at the bus stop prepared to catch the school bus ten (10) minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive and note that the child may get picked up ten (10) minutes after the buses normal scheduled pick-up time.
ON TIME – In order that drivers may meet their schedules, students must be at the proper location for boarding the bus on time. Running to the bus presents added danger.
WAITING – All students must stay well clear of traffic lanes while waiting for the bus. Running, fighting, or shoving must not be allowed. The lives and safety of students depends upon good order at this time.
COURTEOUS – Each student who rides a school bus is expected to demonstrate a courteous and cooperative manner to all personnel.
GOOD ORDER – Students must maintain reasonable order so that the driver may be alert for any traffic hazards, signals, or emergency vehicles.
REMAIN SEATED – All students are to be seated and remain seated for the entirety of the trip. The driver may assign any or all students to certain seats as they seek to operation the school bus in a safe manner and students are expected to comply to all directives from the driver and/or attendant.
PROPER DESTINATION – Students must ride to their proper destination. To get off elsewhere, the student will give the driver a dated note signed by the parent and the principal.
NO SMOKING – Smoking, eating, drinking, or profanity are prohibited on the bus.
KEEP INSIDE – No students are to put their head, hands, or arms outside the bus window.
GETTING OFF – If students must cross the road after getting off the bus; they shall walk across approximately twelve (12) feet in front of the bus. Make sure traffic has stopped in both directions and then cross upon a signal from the driver.
STAY CLEAR – Students must never play about the bus either when getting on or off. Pushing, kicking, horseplaying or slapping at or near the bus can be extremely dangerous.
ELIGIBILITY – A student shall become ineligible for transportation when their behavior is such as to cause dissension on a school bus, or when they disobey state or local rules and regulations pertaining to and/or impeding the safe operation of a school bus.
RESPONSIBILITY – It is the personal responsibility of the student and his parents to maintain eligibility to ride the bus.
PAY FOR DAMAGE – Students who are known to inflict damages to the bus will pay the cost of repairs. This may be part of the principal’s disciplinary action.
RAILROAD CROSSING – Students must reduce the noise level and assist the driver in listening and looking in order for a safe crossing.
PRE-K BOARDING – Pre-K students always board and unload the bus first to facilitate sign-on/sign-off and ensure student safety.
Cell Phones – Students may possess cellular phones/tablets/laptops, so long as such devices are used in a safe, respectful, and responsible manner while on the bus. At no time shall a student operate a cellular device with video or picture taking capabilities in a locker room, classroom, bathroom, school bus, or other location where such operation may violate the privacy rights of another person. Students may use the personal communication devices to listen to music, work on homework, or watch/play games/movies that are age appropriate and do not violate student code of conduct. Note: If listening to music or watching a video/game the student must listen with one ear bud in their ear and the other ear bud out in order for the student to hear any instructions provided by the driver/attendant. Students are expected to be respectful with cellular phones/tablets. Otherwise, the phones/tablets will be confiscated by the driver/attendant and will be given back to the student at the end of the route. Drivers may return the phone to the local school administrator if they deem that the use of said device was in clear violation of student code of conduct standards. If the cell phone/tablet is confiscated there will be disciplinary action for the student.
SEAT BELT SAFETY – Students who ride buses equipped with seat-belt restraint systems are required to wear them at all times while on the bus. Failure to adhere to this policy will result in disciplinary action.
NOTE: This list is not all inclusive and parents are encouraged to review the student handbook for additional safety expectations and consequences associated with violation of expectations.
Disciplinary Procedures
PRINCIPAL IN CHARGE – The principal of the school which the student attends oversee student’s behavior on the bus just as in the classroom. Drivers and/or attendants will report to the principal students who need correction. The Director of Transportation may recommend disciplinary action for any conduct that directly impacts the safe operation of a school bus.
PUNISHMENT – The principal of the school will administer punishment for bad behavior as required. This punishment may include suspension from school. When suspended from the bus, a student is suspended from all buses.
NOTE: This list is not all inclusive and parents are encouraged to review the student handbook for additional safety expectations and consequences associated with violation of expectations.
Riding Home with a Friend
Students wishing to ride home with a friend or extended family member must have prior approval. A note from the parent or guardian must be submitted to the school office, or the school must be notified before afternoon dismissal. Upon approval, the student will receive a bus pass, which must be presented to the bus driver.
Students who spend the night with a friend or extended family may board the bus in the morning without a note to attend school. However, to ride the bus in the afternoon, they must have a bus pass issued by school administration. This ensures proper communication and accountability for afternoon transportation.
Please note: Bus drivers cannot accept notes directly from students, as they cannot verify them with parents or guardians. Without a valid bus pass, students will not be allowed to ride with a friend or family member. Instead, they will be directed to school administration to arrange alternative transportation.
In some cases, due to capacity limitations, certain routes may not allow riding home with a friend. Please inquire with your school prior to making plans.
Lost and Found Items
Items left on the bus can typically be retrieved the following school day. Bus drivers will make every effort to locate missing items and place them at the front of the bus for easy retrieval.
Due to route schedules, buses cannot turn around to deliver forgotten items, and students are not permitted to board the bus outside regular pick-up times to search for them.
In certain situations, parents or guardians may meet the bus at the end of the route to retrieve forgotten items, but this requires prior approval from the transportation dispatch. In some cases, buses are parked at private residences, which can make same-day retrieval of items unavailable.
For questions or concerns regarding lost items, please contact the transportation department directly. District is not responsible for lost or stolen items left behind.
Weather Related School Closings
Making decisions about weather and other emergency-related school schedule changes is very difficult. We depend upon weather forecasts, conversations with local and state law enforcement, and other experts as needed.
Although our goal is to try to be in school and make every day count, there are days which we have no alternative to changing our schedule. First, we will always make decisions about school as to what is best for everyone. We must consider the diversity of our county, as parts may have rural country roads, and others are in the middle of cities and are easily cleaned or cleared. Geographically, differences exist from the north to the south and the west to the east.
When possible, decisions are made in the evening, and enough in advance to give parents and staff as much time to plan as we can. Information is posted on local television stations {2, 4, 5, & 17}, local news {Smokey Barn, The Connection}, and on official Twitter (X) accounts. SchoolMessenger messages from the System are delivered to each home. Please make sure contact information is up to date in PowerSchool.
Unfortunately, we sometimes must make last-minute decisions. If morning decisions come, they will be made around 5:30 a.m. This allows our bus drivers time to alter their schedules if changes are made.
On occasion, we must make interim decisions, such as temporary delays, until we can get a better feel for what the weather is predicted to do. There may be instances in which we announce a delay, then later change to totally canceling classes.
Please rely only on the official outlets mentioned, {local television news, Twitter accounts, local newspapers, and local radio} for accurate information. This will help avoid any confusion from rumors or other misinformation which may be around.
Information is not released through the telephones at schools or at Central Office, only through these official outlets.
Lastly, we ask that parents and guardians ensure students know and have information about transportation and plans should schools have to be dismissed during the school day. Phone lines at schools and Central Office become very busy during such events, and we cannot depend on these methods to communicate plans to each individual student.
Route and Bus Stop Information
- Bus Routes
- Bus Stop Guidelines
- Bus Stop Etiquette | Students
- Bus Stop Etiquette | Parents & Guardians
- Special Transportation Requests
- Late Bus or Delay
Bus Routes
Bus routes are reworked annually to address population changes, zoning adjustments, and driver availability. Planning for the next school year begins in the winter season, with routes finalized over the summer to give drivers time to familiarize themselves with their assignments before school starts in August.
Due to ongoing registration, transportation requests, and staff changes, adjustments to routes may still be needed throughout the school year. We appreciate your patience as we work to accommodate every student's transportation needs. Any significant changes to routes will be communicated to families through our established channels.
We encourage parents and students download the "Here comes the bus" mobile app as it is the official means of notification for delayed routes. By downloading the mobile app, you can also receive notification when the bus is approaching your stop, both AM and PM. Visit our webpage to learn more information on how to set up your account.
Bus Stop Guidelines
To ensure timely and efficient transportation, students may be asked to walk to a designated bus stop. Not all bus routes will provide door-to-door service, as some areas may require students to meet the bus at a nearby stop. Door-to-door service is generally reserved for students receiving Special Education or Special Services, as we are legally required to provide transportation to these students' homes.
Families are encouraged to stay informed about their child's bus route times and designated stop locations. We work to make transportation as convenient and safe as possible for all students while adhering to state guidelines.
Bus Stop Etiquette | Students
ON TIME – In order that drivers may meet their schedules, students must be at the proper location for boarding the bus on time. Running to the bus presents added danger. Please be at the bus stop 15 minutes before scheduled time and remain 15 minutes after in case of a delay.
WAITING – All students must stay well clear of traffic lanes while waiting for the bus. Running, fighting, or shoving must not be allowed. The lives and safety of students depends upon good order at this time. Stay at least 10 feet away from the road until the bus has come to a complete stop. Do not approach the school bus until it is completely stopped, lights are on, and the stop arm is deployed with red lights flashing.
GETTING OFF – If students must cross the road after getting off the bus; they shall walk across approximately twelve (12) feet in front of the bus. Make sure traffic has stopped in both directions and then cross upon a signal from the driver.
STAY CLEAR – Students must never play about the bus either when getting on or off. Pushing, kicking, horseplaying or slapping at or near the bus can be extremely dangerous.
PROPER DESTINATION – Students must ride to their proper destination. To get off elsewhere, the student will give the driver a dated note signed by the parent and the principal.
PROPER ATTIRE - Dress according to weather conditions.
PERSONAL ITEMS - Personal items brought on the bus must be able to fit in a student's lap without blocking the aisle. Balls, bats, freebees, etc. are not permissible.
SAFETY REMINDER - For your safety, never chase after the bus and avoid crossing behind it. If you miss the bus, do not attempt to run after it. In some cases, if the bus returns to your street during its route, you may be able to board at that time. Otherwise, immediately contact your parent or guardian for assistance.
Please note that buses cannot always deviate from their route to pick up students who missed their stop. Families are encouraged to have a plan in place in case this situation arises. Always prioritize safety and proper planning.
PRE-K BOARDING – Pre-K students always board and unload the bus first to facilitate sign-on/sign-off and ensure student safety.
NOTE: This list is not all inclusive and parents are encouraged to review the student handbook for additional safety expectations and consequences associated with violation of expectations.
Bus Stop Etiquette | Parents & Guardians
- Do not park on both sides of the street while waiting for the bus.
- Do not impede the movement of the bus.
- Wait until after the bus leaves to pull away in your personal vehicle.
- Have students at the bus stop fifteen minutes prior to the bus arrival time.
- Do not chase the bus.
- Do not park within 60 feet of a bus stop.
- Get to know the other parents at your student's stop.
- Familiarize your students with the bus stop location and the walking path to it.
- Coordinate "walking pools" where students walk in groups to the bus stop.
- Do not allow sports games to take place at the bus stop.
- Please keep students out of the street and at least 10 feet away from the curb.
PARENT RESPONSIBILITY AT BUS STOPS: Although we are committed to the safety of students on the bus and at the bus stop, there are situations that require your assistance and participation in order to ensure the safety of your children when walking to and from the bus stop. Sometimes, children can be exposed to a dangerous situation because of their own or others' behavior. Students are under the control of their parents/guardians during the time they walk to and from the bus stop. Robertson County Schools makes use of parent responsibility walk zones to ensure efficiency in operating routes. Generally Elementary age students are typically not asked to walk more than one tenth of a mile to their designated bus stop, Middle school students not more than two tenths of a mile, and High school not more than three tenths of a mile. Unsafe bus stops are evaluated by the Transportation Director before bus routes are modified. Please note that students must be at the bus stop if they wish to ride the bus. (Standing at the house, on the porch, or inside will result in your student not having a way to school). Drivers are instructed not to blow horns for students/parents not at the stop due to HOA rules and regulations around the district. Drivers are not required to wait until a parent is present when dropping off or picking up students. Pre-K students are the only classification of students who require an adult be present at the bus stop under the law.
If you have questions or suggestions, please contact the transportation department at 615-384-4555.
Special Transportation Requests
Special transportation arrangements for students with special needs or temporary accommodations must be coordinated through the Special Education Department. If you have questions or need assistance with transportation for a student who requires these services, please contact the Special Education Department directly for guidance and to ensure proper arrangements are made. We are committed to meeting the needs of all students while adhering to required policies.
Late Bus or Delay
We encourage parents and students download the "Here comes the bus" mobile app as it is the official means of notification for delayed routes. Visit our webpage for information on how to set up your account.
If a bus is running late or delayed, students and parents should stay informed through our communication channels. If no updates are provided, parents are encouraged to contact the transportation department directly for the most current information.
While waiting, students should remain at their designated bus stop and wait safely. In the event that the bus is significantly delayed, parents may need to make alternative arrangements for their child’s transportation. We recommend that families have a backup plan in place to ensure their child is safe and accounted for.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to manage delays and ensure the safe arrival of all students.
Student Loading and Unloading Video
We encourage families to watch the Student Loading and Unloading Safety Video. This video provides important guidelines on how students should safely board and exit the bus. Following these safety practices helps protect students and ensures a smooth and secure transportation experience.
Reporting Unsafe Operation of a School Bus
If you observe a Robertson County School Bus being operated in an unsafe manner, please report unsafe behavior to the Director of Transportation by calling 615-382-4680.