In providing student transportation, the main concern of The Durham District School Board and Cartwright Central Public School is to transport the students safely to and from school.
The Board believes that parents and students can contribute much to assist in attaining this goal. We request the cooperation of all concerned in observing the following guidelines:
School Bus Stopping Law:
The Highway Traffic Act requires that all traffic must stop when approaching from the front or over-taking from the rear, a school bus that is stopped with red signal lights flashing on the front and rear. Traffic must remain stopped until the red signal lights and stop arm are no longer flashing. The law applies regardless of the speed limit.
Arriving at the Pick-Up Point:
It is the responsibility of the parent to see that students are safely on the bus
Be on time and avoid running to catch the bus.
If you have to walk along the road to the bus stop, walk on the left side facing oncoming traffic
Wait on the shoulder of the road in an orderly manner
Crossing the Road:
If you must cross the road, wait until the bus is stopped and the signals are flashing
Look both ways to be certain all traffic has stopped
Cross the road at right angles; walk quickly
Do not run
Cross approximately three metres in front of the bus, never behind the bus
Boarding the Bus:
Line up in single file with younger students at the front
Keep off the travelled portion of the road until the bus is stopped
Board the bus in an orderly manner and go directly to your seat
On the Bus:
Students are required to remain in their places while the bus is in motion
Keep windows closed unless the driver gives permission to open them
Never put hands, arms, head or legs out the window
Do not throw anything in the bus or out the windows; assist in keeping the bus clean
Refrain from loud or boisterous talking that may distract the driver; use appropriate language at all times
The consumption of food and beverages are prohibited
Keep the aisle clear
Leaving the Bus:
Check to see that you take all your belongings with you
When the bus stops, leave in an orderly manner
Route information and bus schedules are available from the Transportation Department using the automated phone system and your child’s student number and birth date.
For insurance and safety reasons, students will only be permitted to ride the bus assigned to take him/her to and from school. Furthermore, the pick-up and drop-off points must remain the same for the year. If you have any questions or concerns regarding these requirements, call the school or call the Transportation Department of the Durham District School Board.
Rules and Regulations:
The Ministry of Education regulations state that every pupil is responsible to the Principal of the school for his or her conduct while travelling on a school bus.
Bus riding is a privilege, not a right. This privilege may be withdrawn if a student's conduct is a threat to the safe operation of the bus or to an individual's safety.
If a student's bus privilege is suspended, parents are responsible for the transportation of their student.
Bus discipline problems will be dealt with as follows:
Step 1 - Pupil warning by bus driver
Step 2 - Pupil warning by school principal. Notification of parents
Step 3 - Temporary suspension of bus privileges by principal. Notification to parents in writing
Step 4 - Suspension of bus privileges by Superintendent pending further review