Addressing parental concerns on using the School Bus

[linda@schooltransportmanag]

School transportation is one of the safest modes of travel. This is no exception during this challenging time of working with Covid-19.   Over the last several months, the industry worked diligently to bring in practices which minimize the risk of spreading this virus.  However in order to minimize risks through the operations, school share the responsibility with the operator to establish safety procedure from pick up to drop off and while in transit.   There should be uniformity and agreement on what procedures are to be mandated and who is responsible for compliance and oversight.  Creating a clear strategy, which complies with local regulations but is operationally practical is important  to minimize the risk of spread of Covid-19  but is only  the first step.  As important is how well this information is disseminated to all stakeholders, including students, parents and school staff.   As schools educate their students and staff on the protocols required within the school premise, these protocols should include entering and exiting as well as using school transportation.  Infographics are a great and simple way to remind students of the importance of the procedures when on the bus.   Posting these onto the schools website or disseminating through the information portals/applications can work to remind parents of their role. Involve the students and have them take ownership of the processes by designing their own safety in the bus posters.    Come join our free webinar on Tuesday, 15th September to at 10:00 CEST and listen to our panel of experts discuss their initiatives and how good practice and collaboration is working in various regions globally.