Preservice Training for School Vehicle Drivers & Attendants

Comprehensive Training for Safe & Effective Student Transportation

  • Author: Sarah Car Care
  • Level: Beginner
  • Course length: 3 hours
  • Video time: 20 minutes
  • Author: Sarah Car Care
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The Preservice Training for School Bus Drivers and Attendants course provides an in-depth, structured program to prepare individuals for the vital role of ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of students. This comprehensive training covers all essential aspects, from understanding the importance of the job to mastering communication and student management skills, especially when dealing with children, including those with disabilities.

By the end of this course, participants will be well-equipped with the knowledge and skills required to provide safe, efficient, and compassionate transportation for all students. This training not only ensures compliance with legal requirements, but also fosters a positive and professional environment for both drivers and attendants.

13 Modules

Module 1: Introduction

Gain an understanding of the unique needs and considerations when working with young passengers.

  • Importance of the Job: Recognize the critical role of drivers and attendants in maintaining student safety and well-being. 
  • Basic Responsibilities: Learn the fundamental duties and expectations of the role.

Module 2: Working with Children

  • Responsibility of Working with Children: Delve into the responsibilities that come with the role, emphasizing safety and care.
  • Student Management: Techniques for managing student behavior effectively.
  • Custody Procedures: Understand the proper procedures for custody and transfer of students.
  • Reporting Signs of Abuse: Learn how to identify and report signs of abuse responsibly.

Module 3: Communication

  • Professional Communication: Develop skills for professional interactions.
  • Communicating with Kids, Parents, and Community: Strategies for effective communication with different stakeholders.
  • Communication and Safety: The link between good communication and safety.
  • Bridging Differences and Dealing with Difficult People: Techniques to handle conflicts and bridge communication gaps.
  • Building Relationships with Teachers and Staff: Tips for fostering positive working relationships.
  • Handling Complaints and Stereotyping: Learn to address complaints professionally and avoid stereotypes.
  • Cell Phone Procedures and Writing Reports: Best practices for cell phone use and report writing.

Module 4: Safe Ridership for All

  • Positive Interventions for Behavior and Preventing Bullying: Approaches to maintain a safe and respectful environment.
  • Effective Discipline Referrals: How to manage discipline issues properly.
  • Protecting Yourself from Harm and Defusing Violence: Strategies for personal safety and managing violent situations.
  • Culture of Safety and Workplace Safety: Emphasize the importance of a safety-first culture.
  • Safe Lifting Techniques and Adhering to Assigned Route: Learn proper lifting methods and the importance of route adherence.

Module 5: Working with Disabled Children

  • Characteristics and Dealing with Disabled Children: Insights into the needs of children with disabilities.
  • Communicating and Transporting Disabled Children: Effective communication and safe transportation practices.
  • Sensitivity Training and Confidentiality: Training on being sensitive to the needs of disabled children and maintaining confidentiality.

Module 6: Know Your School Vehicle

  • Safety Features and Learning About Your Vehicle: Familiarize yourself with the safety features of your vehicle.
  • Relationship with Mechanics and Identifying Problems: Build a good relationship with mechanics and learn to identify vehicle issues.
  • School Vehicle Cleanliness and Pre/Post Trip Procedures: Importance of maintaining a clean vehicle and following pre and post-trip procedures.

Module 7: Loading & Unloading Procedures

  • Loading and Unloading Safety Procedures: Learn safe practices for loading and unloading students.
  • Mirror Adjustment and Use: Proper mirror use for safe driving.
  • Ensuring Safe Student Transportation and Custody Transfer: Confirming student pickup and delivery safely.

Module 8: Emergencies/Accidents

  • Types of Emergencies and Safety Drills: Preparing for various emergency scenarios.
  • Evacuation Plans and Accident Procedures: Detailed plans and procedures for evacuations and accidents.
  • First Aid and Staying Calm in Emergencies: Basic first aid and maintaining composure during emergencies.

Module 9: Child Safety Restraint Systems

  • Seat Belt Use and Securing Car Seats: Proper use of seat belts and car seats.
  • Using Seat Belt Cutters and Maintaining Safety Restraints: Tools and maintenance of safety restraints.

Module 10: Transporting Children with Disabilities

  • Wheelchair Procedures and Safety Restraint Systems: Safe handling of wheelchairs and other restraint systems.
  • Transporting Medication and Special Medical Conditions: Guidelines for transporting medications and managing special medical conditions.

Module 11: Defensive Driving

  • Accident Prevention and Handling Different Driving Environments: Techniques to prevent accidents and handle various driving conditions.
  • Railroad Crossings and Severe Weather Driving: Safety measures for railroad crossings and driving in severe weather.

Module 12: Driver & Attendant Self-Care

  • Protecting Yourself and Personal Safety: Ensuring personal safety and well-being.
  • Illness, Fatigue, and Wellness: Managing health and fatigue.
  • Parking Lot and Garage Safety: Safety protocols in the parking lot and garage.

Module 13: Legal Aspects of Transporting Children with Disabilities

  • Liability and Knowing Your Laws: Understanding the legal responsibilities and regulations related to transporting children with disabilities.
  • State Laws and Local Policies: Awareness of state and local regulations.