Bus Rules and Student Conduct
The safe and orderly transportation of our students to and from school is a priority that we take very seriously. To ensure a consistent, safe, and positive environment on our school buses, we have established a set of rules that govern the conduct of all students using our transportation services. These guidelines cover behaviors during boarding, traveling, and exiting the bus, as well as respect for bus property and interactions with the bus driver and fellow passengers. The bus driver, who has full authority over the bus and riders at all times, helps enforce these rules and maintain a secure atmosphere conducive to safe travel.
We expect all students to adhere to these rules and directions provided by the bus driver. Remember, the right to use school district transportation is a privilege, not a right. Non-compliance may result in a loss of these privileges. We encourage students, parents, and guardians to familiarize themselves with these guidelines. We believe that understanding and respecting these rules will contribute to a positive commuting experience for all students in the North Kitsap School District.
For any questions or concerns regarding these rules, feel free to contact our Transportation Department at (360) 396-3099
Creating a Safe and Positive Bus Environment
- All driver instructions must be followed without exception.
- Students should use only their assigned buses and exit at their designated stops. Any alterations to this require parental/guardian consent and a bus pass from the school office. Please contact your child's school for more information.
- The driver's seat is off-limits to students. While the bus is moving, students should stay seated, face forward, with feet, bodies, and all belongings kept clear of the aisle. Ensure to sit properly with both feet on the floor, facing the front.
- Do not distract the driver during the bus's operation, unless in the case of emergencies.
- Use of offensive language or gestures is not allowed.
- Any form of harassment or bullying, whether verbal or physical, is strictly unacceptable.
- Carrying or use of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol, including related items, is strictly prohibited.
- Unsafe behaviors will not be tolerated.
- Throwing objects in, around, or out of the bus is prohibited.
- Possession of dangerous weapons, including, but not limited to, knives, firearms, matches, lighters, or any form of fireworks, is not permitted.
- School projects and sports equipment must be securely fastened. The driver may instruct students to secure items in a backpack, bag, or box.
- Items not allowed on the bus include:
- Breakable containers (e.g. glass objects, aquariums)
- Food, drink, and gum consumption
- Balloons
- Animals, including insects and spiders (with the exception of service animals)
- Any object that cannot be safely controlled by the student in the seat or upright on the floor between their knees. The bus driver has the authority to make the final decision.
- Items not allowed at school
- Illegal items
- Bus windows may only be opened with the driver's consent, and opened no more than two notches. Keep all body parts inside the bus at all times.
- The aisle, front door and well, and back deck should always be kept clear of objects.
- Eating, drinking, and/or chewing gum is prohibited.
- Remain seated until the bus comes to a full stop and the doors have opened for loading and unloading.
- Help maintain bus cleanliness by avoiding littering and disposing of trash responsibly.
- Fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency doors are to be used only with the permission of the driver or another authorized individual. In case of an emergency, adhere to the procedures practiced in Emergency Exit drills and follow the instructions of the driver or another authorized person.
Related Policies and Procedures
- Policy 6600 - Transportation
- Procedure 6600P - Transportation
- Policy 6605 - Student Safety Walking to School and Riding Buses
- Procedure 6605P - Student Safety Walking to School and Riding Buses
- Policy 6608 - Video Cameras on School Buses
- Procedure 6608P - Video Cameras on School Buses
- Policy 6610 - Surveillance Cameras
- Policy 6620 - Special Transportation
- Policy 6625 - Private Vehicle Transportation
- Policy 6630 - Driver Training and Responsibility
- Policy 6640 - School Owned Vehicles
- Procedure 6640P - School Owned Vehicles
- Policy 6690 - Contracting for Transportation Services