School Bus Safety
The safety of our students is the North Kingstown School Department Transportation Department's highest priority. School buses are the safest form of ground transportation available for children, and everyone plays an important role in maintaining that safety.
One of the most important safety concepts every student should understand is the School Bus Danger Zone.
What is the School Bus Danger Zone?
The Danger Zone is the area approximately 10 feet around all sides of the school bus. Because of the size of the bus, the driver cannot always see students who are standing too close to the vehicle.
Students should always stay out of the Danger Zone unless they are boarding, exiting, or directed by the driver.
Bus Stop Safety
For a safe trip to school, students should:
Arrive at the assigned bus stop at least ten (10) minutes before the scheduled pickup time.
Wait in a safe location away from the roadway.
Stand well back from the curb or edge of the road until the bus comes to a complete stop.
Wait your turn to board the bus. Never push, shove, or horseplay.
Never run toward or chase a moving school bus.
Respect private property while waiting for the bus.
Boarding the Bus
Students should:
Wait until the bus has come to a complete stop and the driver opens the door.
Use the handrail when boarding.
Walk carefully onto the bus—never push or rush.
Proceed directly to your assigned seat.
While Riding the Bus
Students should:
Remain seated and facing forward while the bus is moving.
Keep the aisle clear at all times.
Speak quietly so the driver is not distracted.
Keep hands, arms, feet, and belongings inside the bus.
Follow all instructions given by the school bus driver.
Eating and drinking are not permitted on school buses.
Treat fellow students, the driver, and school property with respect.
Exiting the Bus
Students should:
Remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop.
Exit carefully using the handrail.
Walk at least 10 giant steps (approximately 10 feet) away from the bus before stopping.
Stay where the driver can clearly see you.
Crossing the Street
If you must cross the street after exiting the bus:
Walk at least 10 feet in front of the school bus.
Make eye contact with the driver.
Wait for the driver's signal before crossing.
Look left, right, and left again before crossing the roadway.
Continue watching for traffic while crossing.
Never cross behind a school bus.
If You Drop Something
If you drop something near the bus:
Never crawl under or reach beneath the school bus.
Tell the driver immediately.
Wait for the driver's instructions before retrieving the item.
Parents Can Help
Parents and guardians play an important role in keeping students safe.
Please help by:
Having your child at the bus stop at least ten (10) minutes before the scheduled pickup time.
Reviewing these safety rules with your child throughout the school year.
Encouraging students to follow all school bus rules and respect the driver.
Supervising younger students while they are walking to and waiting at the bus stop.
Reminding children to never chase a moving school bus.
Working together, we can provide every North Kingstown student with a safe, positive, and successful transportation experience each school day.