Reopening Plan: Transportation

The district will conduct transportation activities that are consistent with state-issued public transit guidance and NYSED School Reopening guidelines. Students and school staff must wear acceptable face coverings at all times on school buses (e.g., entering, exiting, and seated) and should maintain appropriate social distancing to the extent practicable.  

All students are entitled to transportation by the district to the extent required by law. Transportation departments do not have the ability or the right to deny transportation for any child, including those who are in foster care, homeless or attend private or charter schools. 

All buses that are used daily will be cleaned and disinfected. High contact spots will be wiped down after the morning and afternoon run.  

Whether school is in session remotely or otherwise, transportation will be provided for students whose Individualized Education Plans have placed them out of the district.  This includes students who attend nonpublic, parochial, private and charter schools or any other outside placement.

Members of the same household may be seated within 6 feet of each other.  Parents and legal guardians are encouraged to drop off or walk students to school to reduce density on buses.  Students who are able will be required to wear masks and social distance on the bus to the extent practicable; however, students whose physical or mental health would be impaired are not required to wear a face covering, but must be appropriately socially distanced. 

School bus drivers, monitors, attendants and mechanics are required to perform a self assessment for symptoms of COVID-19 before arriving at work. If personnel are experiencing any of the symptoms of COVID-19, they will notify their employer according to the reporting policies and seek medical attention.  

Transportation staff (drivers, monitors, attendants, mechanics and cleaners) will be trained and provided periodic refreshers on the proper use of personal protective equipment and the signs and symptoms of COVID-19.  

Additional procedures to ensure health and safety include:

• Face coverings, unless specifically exempt, are required to be worn on the school bus at all times.
• Students will be seated in assigned seats to maximize physical distancing.
• Family members, who reside in the same household, will be seated together when possible.
• Students are only permitted to ride to and from one designated bus stop.