school staff followed the process. The following steps we believe are required for suc- cessful student management on our school buses.
Clear Expectations and Rules Establishing clear expectations and rules is the foun-
dation of effective behavior management on school buses. Schools and transportation authorities should de- velop comprehensive rules aligning with their district’s code of conduct. These rules should be communicated to students, parents and bus drivers, emphasizing the importance of safety, respect for others and adherence to regulations. Collaborating with school buildings to learn ways they are reinforcing and teaching students about expectations and rules can be a great way to bring consistency from the school to the bus. Posting these visual reminders of the rules inside the bus can also help reinforce that the bus is an extension of the classroom.
Positive Reinforcement Recognizing and rewarding positive behavior is an
effective strategy to promote a respectful and cooperative atmosphere. Bus drivers and transportation staff should acknowledge students who consistently exhibit good behavior, whether being polite, following rules or helping others. This positive reinforcement can be verbal praise, certificates, or small incentives. Celebrating exemplary behavior, or even improved behavior, encourages indi- vidual students and sets a standard for others to follow.
Management Negative Student Behavior While positive reinforcement is vital, it is equally
important to address instances of misconduct promptly and consistently. Transportation departments must de- velop a student management plan that outlines a series of steps to implement for different levels of misbehavior. Bus drivers must be trained to implement these steps fairly and consistently. When disciplinary actions are taken, they should be accompanied by clear explana- tions and an opportunity for students to reflect on their behavior and make amends. The goal is for a positive outcome after the student reflects on their behavior and displays the outcome that is sought after, at which time, the bus driver must allow the student to return to normal seating and interaction with their fellow students.
Communication and Partnership Maintaining open lines of communication between schools, bus drivers, parents and students is key to address- ing behavioral issues effectively. The center spoke in this communication wheel is the transportation department’s leadership. Regular meetings should take place to discuss concerns, share updates and seek stakeholder feedback. Department administrators should provide ongoing train-
ing and support to bus drivers and attendants, equipping them with effective communication and conflict-resolu- tion skills. Additionally, involving parents in the behavior management process and seeking cooperation can reinforce positive student bus behavior. Maintaining open lines of communication among all stakeholders involved in student bus transportation is key to effective behavior management. Schools should encourage regular commu- nication between bus drivers, attendants, teachers, parents and administrators. Fostering collaboration and sharing information keeps everyone informed about behavioral patterns, concerns and specific issues related to individual students. This enables a proactive approach to addressing behavioral challenges promptly.
Training and Support Bus drivers and bus attendants play a crucial role in managing student behavior. Providing comprehen- sive training and ongoing support to these individuals is essential. Training programs should cover effective communication techniques, conflict resolution strate- gies and de-escalation methods. Equipping bus staff with the necessary skills and resources will make them better prepared to handle challenging situations and maintain a safe environment for all students. This training should not be the same year to year and must adapt to changing student dynamics. It is important to be aware of these changes and adjust training accordingly. Bus drivers and attendants should feel supported by school and transpor- tation administration, and be encouraged to ask for help.
Education and Awareness Educating students about appropriate behavior is crucial
for fostering a safe and respectful environment. Schools can conduct awareness campaigns or workshops to teach students about the importance of following rules, being considerate to others and the potential consequences of misbehavior. These initiatives can also guide how to deal with challenging situations, promote empathy and en- courage students to take responsibility for their actions. Student behavior management requires a proactive and holistic approach that combines clear expectations, positive reinforcement, consistent discipline, effective communication, and educational initiatives. By imple- menting these strategies, schools and transportation authorities can create a safe and pleasant environment on school buses. Nurturing positive student bus behavior ensures all passengers’ well-being and promotes a culture of respect and responsibility that extends beyond the bus ride, benefiting the entire school community. ●
Belinda Govich is the assistant director of transportation for Shenendehowa Central School District in Clifton Park, New York. She can be reached at
govibeli@shenschools.org
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