Riding the Bus, Transportation Facts: Back-To-School Countdown (Day 26)

The Brandon Patch Back-To-School Countdown proceeds with this Day 26 report, offering news of interset as the first day of classes approaches.

Teachers in the Hillsborough County School District go back to school Aug. 15 to prepare for the first day of classes, Aug. 23.

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The Hillsborough County School District reported in June that “after more than 16 million miles” another school year had drawn to a close for its transportation department.

That department ran 1,421 buses and transported more than 90,000 students to and from school over the course of 180 days, according to the June 8 “Trans-Script” newsletter published by school officials.

The newsletter notes, too, that with the new school year, there will be 31 new, 77-passenger buses.

Teachers go back to school Aug. 15 and students, eight days later. But Hillsborough County school bus drivers will be on the job Aug. 9.

The school district also notes on its website that bus drivers are needed, and interested applicants should call 813-982-5521 or click here. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age (click through for additional requirements).

Driver applicants complete 62 hours of training before becoming probationary bus drivers with no benefits for at least six months. Benefits are provided after the probationary period. Applicants also must pass a fingerprint test and physical examination.

The school district’s website offers additional links, including to information concerning:

• Student Conduct
• Bus-riding Instructions
• Parent Do’s and Don’ts at Bus Stops
• School Choice Transportation
• Magnet Ramp Locations
• Bell Times and Calendars

It’s important to note the following instructions for bus riders. Children should know to:

1. Stand off the roadway while waiting for the bus.
2. Stay in their seats at all times while the bus is moving.
3. Keep heads and arms inside, and not dangling out the windows.
4. Walk 10 feet in front of the bus and wait for the driver's signal before crossing the road.
5. Refrain from unnecessary conversation with the driver.
6. Engage in proper classroom conduct.
7. Remain absolutely silent at all railroad crossings.
8. Obey the driver at all times; the driver has the right to assign pupils to certain seats to keep order on the bus.
9. Not eat, drink or smoke on the bus.
10. Arrive on time, because the bus driver is not going to wait for tardy show-ups.
11. Not abuse the privilege to ride a bus, and it is a privilege, not a right.

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ABOUT THE BACK-TO-SCHOOL COUNTDOWN:

This is the 26th posting in a 41-day effort that counts down the days before the opening bell of the 2011-12 school year for the Hillsborough County School District.

Previously posted:

• Back-To-School Countdown (Day 15) — Education Quotes To Consider
• Back-To-School Countdown (Day 16) — Sizer on Adolescence
• Back-To-School Countdown (Day 17) — Bully Prevention and Reporting
• Back-To-School Countdown (Day 25) — School Assignment, Choice in Hillsborough County