Bus drivers shall observe all state statutes and administrative rules governing traffic safety and school bus operation. The District shall, at the beginning of each school year, provide each driver with a copy of the District’s written rules for bus drivers and for student conduct on buses.
All new school bus drivers shall complete a prior-approved school bus training program and pass all knowledge tests contained in the SDE school bus driver classroom curriculum. Each new driver shall also be required to have ten (10) hours of practical training in a school bus with a minimum of six (6) hours of actual behind the wheel training. Each new driver shall perform an emergency evaluation practical and receive a driver evaluation before being allowed to drive a school bus loaded with students. As a support to school district personnel, the SDE staff shall develop and maintain model classroom and behind-the-wheel training methods and resources.
All experienced school bus drivers shall complete at least ten (10) hours refresher school bus driver training each fiscal school year. At least three (3) hours of pre-service training shall be provided before school begins in the fall. In addition, at least three (3) in-service training sessions shall be provided during the school year utilizing, at a minimum thirty (30) minute, topic specific and documented, training blocks.
Each bus driver shall meet the qualifications established by the state department of education, including, but not limited to the following:
1. Over the age of 18 years of age;
2. Be of good moral character;
3. Not be addicted to the use of intoxicants or narcotics;
4. Possess a valid and appropriate commercial driver’s license and other endorsements required by law, and, if applicable, a waiver for insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus issued by the State Department of Education;
5. Be medically qualified under the physical examination standards of the federal motor carrier safety regulations; provided, however, that individuals with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, who are otherwise medically qualified under the physical examination standards of the federal motor carrier safety regulations, may request a waiver for this condition from the state department of education as provided in Idaho Code § 33-1509.
The bus driver is responsible for the safety of all passengers and possesses a similar level of authority as a classroom teacher to expect conduct of student passengers to abide by expected student conduct outlined in student handbooks and district policies. The bus driver may take corrective actions similar to a classroom teacher when dealing with student misconduct and may refer student misconduct to the appropriate building administration. Additionally, each bus driver shall report any condition on or bordering their route which constitutes a hazard to the safety of the students being transported.
When a teacher, coach, or other certified staff member is assigned to accompany students on a bus, such person shall be primarily responsible for the behavior of the students in his/her charge. The bus driver shall have final authority and responsibility for the bus. The Superintendent shall establish written procedures for bus drivers.
Legal Reference: I.C. § 33-1508 Operation of School Buses
I.C. § 33-1509 School Bus Drivers – Definition – Qualification - Duties
IDAPA 08.02.02.170 School Bus Drivers and Vehicle Operation
Policy History
Anticipated First Reading: February 19, 2009
Adopted on: March 12, 2009
Revised on: December 20, 2023