Transportation Safety

Transportation Procedures

For the safety of all students and staff, Thompson School District has the following guidelines regarding items that can be brought on the bus:

Prohibited Items: Students are not allowed to bring skateboards, scooters, or other large or bulky items on the bus. This includes oversized athletic gear, equipment, balls and large musical instruments.
Approved Items: Any items that are approved for transport must be an appropriate size and kept fully enclosed in a case or bag. This is to ensure safety and maintain bus capacity.
Size Limitations: Any item deemed too large or that could compromise the safety and capacity of the bus may be refused. Please be mindful of these restrictions to ensure a safe ride for all students.
Liability: The district cannot assume responsibility for any lost or damaged items brought onto the bus. We encourage students to leave large or valuable items at home to avoid potential issues.

CDE Rules for the Operation of School Transportation Vehicles

4204-R-223.00 Transportation of Unsafe Items

223.01 School transportation vehicles shall not transport any items, materials, or equipment which in any way would endanger the lives, health, or safety of the students and school transportation vehicle operator. In addition, any item or items, which could break or produce injury if tossed about inside of the school transportation vehicle shall be properly stored or secured to reduce the danger to a minimum. In addition, the school transportation vehicle operator shall make a reasonable and prudent determination that all carry-on items are properly handled in order to minimize the danger to all others.

223.02 All aisles and exits shall be clear of luggage and/or equipment when transporting students.

— Colorado State Board of Education, Operation of School Transportation Vehicles
(1 CCR 301-26)

We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining safe and efficient transportation for all riders.

Student Safety Around the Bus

Arrive at the bus stop location 5-10 minutes early.
Always walk, never run toward a bus at a bus stop or at school.
Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before walking to the bus at any stop location or school loading zone.
When crossing, wait for the driver to signal you to cross.
Walk ten feet in front of the bus so the driver can see you.
Avoid the Danger Zone (ten foot perimeter around the bus) at all times.
Students and guardians should never run toward or after the bus.
Be alert to traffic. Check both ways for cars before stepping off the bus.
Make eye contact with the bus driver, and wait for his/her signal before crossing the street.
Walk in front of the bus; never walk behind the bus to cross the street.
While waiting for the bus, stay in a safe place away from the street.
Before leaving the sidewalk, look for the flashing red lights.
Never go near or under the bus to retrieve something you’ve dropped.