Forms

Parent-paid bus service: DS Bus Lines discretion, single stops, full semester payment, no refunds for non-compliance or mid-semester changes.

DS Bus Lines - Pay Rider Application

The safety of all students riding the bus to and from school is a shared responsibility. Students, families, bus drivers, and school staff must work together to ensure a safe transportation environment. Students who do not follow expectations may face disciplinary action, including suspension of bus riding privileges and school consequences. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Contact Transportation

If you have questions or need to speak with your child’s bus driver, contact DS Bus Lines to schedule a time:

• Phone: (573) 214-3860
• Email: CPSTransportation@cpsk12.org

If you need to speak with a driver at a stop, do not step onto the bus. Signal the driver and go to the driver’s side window. Drivers will close the entrance door and direct you to the window for safety. Unauthorized entry onto a school bus is considered trespassing under Missouri law.

Bus Conduct and Expectations

In accordance with Board Policy JG-R1, student behavior on district transportation is subject to the same rules as behavior at school. Transportation privileges may be suspended or revoked for violations.

1. Follow the bus driver’s directions.
2. Arrive at the bus stop at least 5 minutes early and remain at least 5 minutes after the scheduled time.
3. Line up in a single line at the side of the road.
4. Sit in your assigned seat and remain seated properly.
5. Speak quietly to others.
6. Keep hands, feet, and belongings to yourself.
7. No food, drinks, gum, or candy on the bus.
8. Understand the danger zone around the bus.
9. The safest bus stop is one with an adult present.

Student Responsibilities

• Help keep the bus clean.
• Do not damage transportation equipment.
• Show respect to other students and the bus driver.
• Use appropriate language at all times.

Damage caused by student behavior must be paid for by the student or parent. Bus suspension may continue until damages are paid.

Behavior Expectations

Any behavior that creates an unsafe or disruptive environment will result in disciplinary action. This may include loss of bus riding privileges. Students are expected to prioritize safety, respect, and responsibility at all times.

Mobile Electronic Devices

Electronic devices may be used on the bus only with permission from the bus driver and building principal for educational purposes. When allowed:

• Sound must be muted or headphones must be used.
• All use must follow Board Policy and the Student Handbook.

No other use of mobile electronic devices is permitted.

Hazardous Route Form

The safety of all students riding the bus is a shared responsibility. Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising children to and from bus stops. Students should use only their assigned stop. Families play a key role in ensuring safety during the walk, at the stop, and on the bus. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Please ensure your child has basic contact information with them, including their name, home address, and a parent or guardian phone number in case of emergency.

Getting Ready for School

• Use backpacks to prevent dropping items.
• Wear bright or contrasting clothing for visibility.
• Remove loose drawstrings or dangling objects.
• Leave home on time to arrive at least 5 minutes before the bus.

Walking to the Bus Stop

• Walk with an adult or in groups when possible.
• Use sidewalks when available, or walk single file along the edge of the road.
• Cross streets carefully by looking left, right, then left again.
• Model safe behavior by talking through actions with your child.

At the Bus Stop

• Stand where the driver can see your child.
• Do not allow children to wait inside a car or house.
• No playing in the street or throwing objects.
• Arrive at least 5 minutes before the scheduled stop time.

Getting On and Off the Bus

• Do not allow children to pick up dropped items near the bus, tell the driver for help.
• Look right before stepping off the bus.
• Secure loose items that could get caught on doors or handrails.
• Students must use their assigned stop unless the school provides written permission.
• Meet children on the drop off side of the street to prevent unsafe crossing.
• Have a backup plan if no one is home:

• Where your child should go
• Which neighbor they can ask for help

Riding the Bus

• Talk quietly and be respectful to others.
• Follow the driver’s directions at all times.
• Stay seated and keep the aisle clear.

Bus Safety Awareness

The area around a school bus includes “danger zones” where drivers may not be able to see students. The most dangerous areas are directly in front of the bus, behind the bus, and along the sides. Students should always stay visible to the driver and avoid these areas whenever possible. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Bus schedules may be affected by conditions outside of the district’s control, including weather, traffic, road closures, and mechanical issues. Because of this, families should follow the guidelines below to ensure student safety and timely transportation.

Morning Pick Up

• Regular education students: Be at the bus stop at least 5 minutes before the scheduled time and remain for up to 5 minutes after.
• Special needs, early childhood, lottery, and districtwide programs: Be at the bus stop at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time and remain for up to 10 minutes after.

Afternoon Drop Off

• Drop off times are not posted due to changing conditions and varying school dismissal times.
• Parents and guardians should be ready for their child at the scheduled school dismissal time.
• Bus arrival times typically become more consistent as the school year progresses.

Following these expectations helps ensure a safe and efficient transportation experience for all students.

The form is used to request safety vests for students or staff needing enhanced visibility while riding or supervising bus transportation.

Safety Vest Request Form

School Bus Stop Change Request

This document outlines emergency response protocols for CPS transportation staff, including procedures for responding to behavioral, medical, and safety incidents on school buses.

Transportation Emergency Action Plan