CHALLENGES OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS DR. LINDA F BLUTH 1

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs Dr. Linda F. Bluth, Ed.D Past-President, National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT) Consultant, Maryland State Department of Education Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services Baltimore, Maryland

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs Session Description This presentation will focus on the different kinds of challenges encountered on the school bus when transporting students of different ages with special needs. Transportation knowledge and implementation of best practices for exemplary decision-making will be discussed. Safety is a key consideration in transporting students with special needs. 3

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs Information about students with special needs requires an understanding of vehicle selection, equipment use and managing the special needs of students transported with autism, attention deficit disorder, special health conditions, intellectual, cognitive, emotional and physical disabilities. 4 Team Effort

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs It is essential that transportation staff working directly with students, have up to date information to make informed decisions prior to and during the school bus ride. This is a safety necessity. 5 Runner! Seat Away From Doors And Exits

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs Driver training should include knowledge and familiarity about special vehicle/equipment and the challenges of transporting students with different kinds of disabilities on the school bus. 6 How Many Children With Disabilities Should Be On The Same Bus?

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs Vehicle/Equipment Should Be Planned For In Advance Of Purchase Considerations Should Include The Specialized Needs Of Children Transported - Matching Vehicle Selection And Specialized Equipment With The Needs Of The Students Transported - Factors For Decision-Making Should Include Age And The Severity Of The Disability 7 Supervision Recommendations

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs Proper installation and utilization of specialized equipment should be in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Driver’s should be taught to use school bus equipment in adherence to the manufacturer’s instructions. Each driver should be observed prior to utilizing special vehicles and equipment to ensure safe practices. 8 Manufacturer’s Instructions

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs Special Vehicle Equipment May Be Different From One Vehicle To Another Unique circumstances should be addressed by following an established protocol. Substitute drivers should review and follow a recognized protocol prior to driving special needs students to and from school. 9

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs An essential aspect of safe ridership for special needs students is careful and detailed planning. A daily routine is a requirement and not an option. The impact of different disabilities on providing a safe ride requires exemplary driver communication skills suitable to managing the school bus environment. 10 Plan Routine Schedule Communication

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs Managing Daily Challenges To Provide A Safe Ride Allergies Boarding The School Bus Impact of Cognitive, Emotional, Health, Intellectual and Physical Special Needs Integrating Children With And Without Disabilities On The Same School Bus Length Of Ride Time Managing Unanticipated Events/Emergencies Pick-up And Drop Off Location Seating Selection Supervision Of Specific Students With Challenging Conditions 11

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs Practice Evacuation Drills Utilizing An Approved Written Protocol Take Into Consideration The Unique Requirements Of Special Needs Students 12 Evacuation Plan

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs When All Is Said And Done The Importance Of Specialized Vehicle Selection, Equipment Use, Driver Training, Knowledge About The Impact of Specific Disabilities Should Not Be Underestimated For The Provision Of Safe Transportation.. 13

Special Vehicle/Equipment Challenges of Students with Special Needs Questions Are Encouraged At The Scheduled Time 14