DRIVERS ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Taken from the Department of Public Safety Arizona School Bus Driver Training Guide

OCCUPATIONAL ROLE Perhaps in no other area of education, does any one person accept more responsibility than the school bus driver. This responsibility requires that you devote your full attention to the driving task, with the safety and welfare of your passengers foremost in your priorities. The vital link to safety , proper driver attitude, knowledge, and skill must be developed through your interest in safe driving. With continual in-service activities, you upgrade your ability to cope with constantly changing driving environment. You must be constantly re-evaluating your driving technique. Developing and maintaining safe driving habits require consistent practice and periodic refresher courses.

FOR YOUR EMPLOYER YOU MUST BE WILLING TO: Accept responsibility. Accept authority. Show interest and enthusiasm for ALL assigned duties. Accept training and be willing to learn new ideas and techniques. Carry out assignments cheerfully and to the best of your ability. Gain a working knowledge of written school policy. Communicate openly and discuss problems with your supervisor.

FOR YOUR PASSENGERS Be professional at all times, serving as a role model of correct behavior. Follow the designated schedule. Exercise safe practices. Maintain a clean bus. Maintain high standards for your own personal habits. Speak courteously to passengers. Use reasonable discipline methods, while following school district procedures. Develop rapport with the students, but maintain a friendly/businesslike relationship with them. Treat each student fairly, equally and as a person. Acknowledge students good behavior.

PARENTS LEARN HOW TO PROPERLY INFORM AND WORK WITH - Discussions with distraught parents should be conducted in a calm and professional manner. When necessary, impress upon parents their responsibility to have children at the bus stop on time. Always be on time, courteous, and cooperative. Exhibit your concern for the safety of passengers by practicing good and proper driving skills at all times. Be receptive to parents’ and students’ suggestions and, when appropriate, refer them to the proper school official. When necessary, advise parents that passengers are expected to sit and be reasonably quiet without causing a disturbance. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from school officials to help resolve problems between you and your passengers, and their parents.

YOUR FELLOW EMPLOYEES All members of the “Safety Team” must perform effectively to achieve a safe and efficient transportation operation. Discord among employees can quickly undermine the best intentions of individuals within the team. To promote harmony, which will make your job and the job of your fellow employees more rewarding for all concerned, follow these simple suggestions: Be courteous at all times. Do not criticize other drivers, or involve yourself with their routes or assignments. Assist others with pre-trip by checking lights as well as backing when necessary, and on the road when situations arise. Compliment good work and deeds. Assist others with emergencies. Promote good working relationships at all times. Rather than standing strong on your opinion- learn to compromise and find a happy medium. Be mindful of others and their feelings. Yours are as equally important as theirs. Steer clear from gossip.

YOU It is important that you honestly evaluate yourself YOU It is important that you honestly evaluate yourself. Your dress, behavior and professionalism directly reflects on this department and the district. Hold yourself to the highest standards. To increase your effectiveness-you should display, at least- the following: A responsible and upstanding person. Able to gain the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to safely operate a school bus. Able to cope with unexpected and unusual situations. Able to demonstrate a positive attitude toward safe driving and student transportation. Alert and practice good judgment. Concerned about the needs of your passengers. Willing to practice patience and understanding. Even tempered. Physically and mentally prepared for the driving task. Free from the effects of alcohol, illegal drugs and medication. Positive and professional image through appearance, behavior and language.

You’re an important person. You have a responsible job. You’re a member of a team.

Our Number One Priority: THE CHILDREN WE TRANSPORT

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