As parents and guardians you have an opportunity to participate in assisting us in maintaining safety at and around the bus stop.

Parents and guardians need to assist in maintaining an orderly and safe bus stop.
You are responsible for your student prior to the bus arriving and after the bus has dropped them off and left the area.

If our drivers witness an incident we will take action.

However, if an incident occurs prior to the bus arriving or after they have left the bus stop area, the bus stop is considered public property and the incident will become a law enforcement issue.

Students need to be at the bus stop at least five minutes before the arrival time of the bus.
Students are to stand in an orderly manner and be at least 10 steps off the roadway from traffic.

When the bus arrives, students should form a line, not charging at the bus, load quickly and quietly find a seat.

On the bus while riding to or from school students must stay seated.

Students can talk quietly to their seat partner.

When the bus arrives at school, students need to unload in the same manner as when loading; form a line and debark quietly and orderly.

If there is a problem and someone is picking on your student, report the incident to the bus driver immediately.

Please make sure that your student’s long or hanging drawstrings on clothing and backpacks are removed.

Do not overload backpacks with excessive or heavy items.

The students are expected to sit in their seat with the backpack on their lap.

We want your student to have a safe ride to and from school.

Kevin Kelm is transportation supervisor for the Dowagiac Union School District.