TSB Super Admin, Author at trackschoolbus

25 Best Schools in Chicago

Posted on August 1, 2019 by TSB Super Admin

Most parents use data as well as statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and other trustworthy resources to find the best schools in their area.

When it comes to Chicago, most top-rated public schools are ranked based on how they perform on state-wide tests, in graduation exams as well as how good they prepare their students for college.

Whether you are looking for a primary school to provide your children with primary or elementary education or even a secondary or high school, here’s a list of the 25 Best Schools in Chicago.

1. River Woods Elementary School

This primary school works with an ideal mission of providing learners with significant, distinguished learning experiences, teamwork and a common vision for success, and thus retaining a safe and responsible school climate.

Located on Chicago’s southeast side, north of the Easter Lake area, this school provides education for more than 500 students each year in their pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade classrooms.

Based on last year’s report, this school in chicago has ranked better than 96.9% of elementary schools in Illinois and was also ranked 5th among 14 ranked elementary schools in the Naperville School District. Reports also highlight that most students here are performing above grade level.

2. Walter Payton College Preparatory High School

Since its beginning in 2000, Walter Payton College Preparatory High School has been serving as an international model for global teaching and learning.

Situated in the north side of Chicago, this is a school with award-winning status for its outstanding math, science, fine arts, humanities as well as adventure education programs.

Students can also benefit from extracurricular activities, sports programs and student-driven clubs in the school.

Factors that attract anyone to this school include

diverse student and staff populations
nationally recognized debate teams
better attendance rate

3. Whitney M. Young Magnet High School

Run by the Chicago Public Schools district, Whitney M. Young Magnet High School was founded in 1975. Based near West Side neighborhood in Chicago, this school aims at creating a positive as well as a friendly, varied and challenging learning community.

Ranked as the 5th most challenging high school in Illinois, 4th best Chicago high school and the 2nd most diverse high school in the U.S., this high school features preparatory curriculum with two programs that need special application and entrance testing – The Magnet High School Program for Grades 9–12 and The Academic Center for Grades 7–8.

The school also provides support for students in developing diverse fine arts programs including graphic design, band, guitar, orchestra, choir, drama, sculpture, theater and more

4. Bronzeville Classical Elementary School

Through their unique education model, they aim at providing students with the base knowledge to discover and obtain a clear understanding of the world around them and act accordingly.

Their problem-based learning helps in facing real-world issues along with making students economically advanced. The staff here is well trained to prepare each student for those 21st-century jobs which is to be created.

This school community’s accelerated academic programs are taught above grade level, which helps the students to attain their highest academic latent. This school was also in news recently for helping empower young girls at elementary schools through science and gardening.

5. Northside College Preparatory High School

Ranked #2 in Illinois High Schools, this public high school was founded in 1999 and is situated in the North Park neighborhood of Chicago, IL. The first as well as new CPS high school that was built in last 20 years, it provides a unique learning community.

Key factors that all work together to make this school a great place for public education includes

gifted, dedicated students
progressive and expert faculty
caring and supportive parents
supportive benefactors
community partners

In grades 9-12, this school has 1,069 students with a student-teacher ratio of 18:1. Reports highlight that 89% of students in this top-rated, public school are at least proficient in math and 94% in reading.

6. Lindblom Math and Science Academy (LMSA)

Located on Chicago’s South Side, in West Englewood, this public 4-year selective enrollment high school aims at drawing the best students from all areas of the city.

Ranked 11th within Illinois and one among 106 high schools in the Chicago Public Schools list, this academy provides students with the opportunity to take Advanced Placement® coursework and exams.

In National Rankings, this school has been ranked #272. Baxter International Inc. has collaborated with this reputable academy to construct the Biotechnology Center for Excellence. With this initiative, students can connect their classroom studies to real world experiences.

7. Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy

A 3 year residential public high school based in Aurora, IL, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) is focused on developing artistic, moral leaders in mathematics, science, engineering as well as technology.

Niche.com has ranked this school as the top Public School in America in 2019. IMSA provides tutoring through research, innovative undertaking and tactical partnerships and thus aims at creating academically talented Illinois students.

8. Vernon Hills High School (VHHS)

Located in the northern suburb of Chicago, Vernon Hills High School or VHHS is ranked 23rd within Illinois. This public 4-year high school with about 1300 students works with a mission to create talented scholars who travel around and discover the most innovative creations.

Being a part of Community High School District 128, this community also includes Libertyville High School

9. Jones College Prep High School

Established in August 1998, Jones College Prep High School is run by the Chicago Public Schools district. Being the first school in Chicago to engage in the Cooperative Work-Study program, this school is dedicated to preparing students for a life span of achievement.

With a tradition of academic excellence and ethnic and cultural diversity, this school is dedicated to fulfilling each student’s potential in academic, creative, material, as well as socio-emotional dimensions.

10. Lane Tech College Prep High School

The largest high school in Chicago accommodating about 4,200 students, Lane Tech College Prep High School is a leader among the most exceptional educational foundations in the area.

This school’s set of courses is based on college preparatory education and aims at building the school’s technical tradition. Here, students can enjoy more continuous learning, with the same amount of instructional days as other schools.

11. Glenbrook South High School

Based in Chicago, Glenbrook South High School serves 2,972 students in grades 9-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 15:1.

This public 4-year high school offers a unique instructional program that is designed to meet the educational requirements of a varied student population.

This school also takes pride in expanding its contributions to all crucial areas such as Arts, Academics, Athletics as well as Activities.

12. Metea Valley High School

Started in August 2009 in DuPage County, Metea Valley High School is one among the four high schools run by the Indian Prairie School District, which is the 5th largest district in IL.

Read Also: Top 10 School Bus Companies

Here, students get opportunities beyond the traditional curriculum and so they can excel in all subject areas. They have the most supportive teachers of any selective enrollment high school.

13. Phoenix Military Academy High School

With almost 540 students in grades 9 to12, Phoenix Military Academy High School is ranked 9^th position within Illinois.

This academy aims at developing young people to become good civilian and leader with surprising quality as well as a clear idea for victory.

Most courses that are offered allows for greater depth of study, along with replicating the seminar courses at the university level.

14. Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy

Opened in 2005, in Forest Park, Illinois, Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy is one of the latest schools in the Proviso Township High Schools District 209.

This school works with the mission of developing the mutually dependent and worldwide learner with an advanced set of courses that improves their problem-solving capability.

Along with academic brilliance, students will also be taught to be all-time learners and universal citizens.

15. Abraham Lincoln Elementary School

Abraham-Lincoln-Elementary-School-in-chicago

With a successful history of over 135 years, Abraham Lincoln Elementary School is serving the Lincoln Park community with great pride.

Chosen as an International Gifted School, this school has one of the most prominent educational programs in this world. By balancing custom and novelty, they provide outstanding opportunities for students in all relevant backgrounds.

16. Adlai E. Stevenson High School

Adlai-E-Stevenson-High-School-in-chicago

Named on behalf of its former Illinois governor Adlai E. Stevenson II, this Adlai E. Stevenson High School was opened in the year 1965.

This School Community works hard to reach excellence by engaging students in significant experiences. The faculty, parents and staff here are determinedly dedicated to nurturing the great minds and leaders of tomorrow.

17. Oscar Mayer Magnet School

Oscar Mayer Magnet School is dedicated to promoting students to become lifelong learners.

Their pioneering teaching techniques are designed to promote academic curiosity and support the principles of an engaged population. Courses offered here are based on Montessori and an International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Program.

18. Solorio Academy High School

Named in tribute to Eric Solorio, Eric Solorio Academy High School works with the mission of providing all students with the awareness, talent, and discipline essential to graduate from college and have an optimistic impact on their living communities.

This public 4-year high school serving 1,185 students is successful in creating a supportive atmosphere to improve student’s problem-solving skills.

19. Decatur Classical School

Positioned among the top 1% of all schools in Illinois, Decatur Classical School provides a supreme educational experience for all their students.

Your kids can also benefit from an innovative curriculum which supports the investigation, decisive thinking, as well as the application of educational tools.

They follow common core principles to connect students in high quality accelerated teaching.

20. Beaubien Elementary School

Initially named the Jefferson and later named after the French dealer Jean Baptiste Beaubien, Beaubien School provides a fostering school atmosphere that accommodates gifted and talented students of diverse populations.

This community also promotes other activities that keep your children active such as chess club, band, robotics club, sports program, science and math club and more.

21. Amundsen High School

Being a part of Chicago Public Schools, Amundsen High School serves almost 1,200 students. The school is well known for its outstanding student success results as well as competitive educational and supplementary programs that meet this 21st-century competence.

The courses offered here are intended to develop each student’s talent and thus make them free thinkers for their lifetime. They can also gain good knowledge of other subjects including languages, technology as well as arts.

22. Skinner North Classical School

Since September 2009, Skinner North has been striving towards achieving academic excellence and improving social skills to all their students.

Along with competitive courses and coaching, this school also provides other key facilities such as a library, cooking kitchen, science and computer labs, a large auditorium, and more.

Dedicated and experienced staff here put their hands together to establish highly successful rules to support teamwork and leadership.

23. Chicago Bulls College Prep

Named after the basketball team – Chicago Bulls, Chicago Bulls College Prep is a part of the Noble Network of Charter Schools.

This school aims at organizing learners for their graduation, by teaching them respectable personality, self-discipline, and a healthy standard of living.

Caring staff at this community provides valuable instructions to students to sculpt them in an academically sophisticated environment.

24. Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences

Along with creating knowledgeable and educated citizens, this college preparatory high school provides an opportunity to learn agriculture and develop marketing skills in learners.

Their mission is to change the illustration of built-up agriculture, by producing technologically advanced graduates. This Midwest attracts students and parents for its inventive curriculum, failure avoidance and excellent motivation for students.

25. Corliss High School

Named after George Henry Corliss, an American engineer, this high school provides all necessary support for student to make sure that all whom they educate are really successful.

They also offer Advanced Placement coursework as well as exams for learners. Many reports have already proven this school student’s proficiency in math as well as reading.

Hope this list helps you choose the best school to build your child’s career.

Why We Need School Bus Drivers In This Age Of Automation

Posted on July 24, 2019 by TSB Super Admin

School buses are considered to be the safest mode of transportation of students to and from schools. A school bus driver is the most responsible person involved in the transportation of children to school and back. He is the main interface between students, their parents and the school.

He is the main interface between students, their parents and the school.

A school bus driver is the most responsible person involved in the transportation of children to school and back. He is the main interface between students, their parents and the school.

The advancements in technology have brought about innovations in the field of manufacture of vehicles.

Driverless autonomous vehicles are being tested by leading vehicle manufacturers, whether it would be practical to use these buses to transit children needs to be assessed.

AN OVERVIEW

A school bus driver is responsible for the safe transportation of students. His duties are not merely confined to that of driving alone. He is in charge of the students during the time they are on the bus.

He picks the students from pre-designated stops at fixed timings. Any delay in the schedule is intimated to the parents. Traffic jams, accidents and other disruptions on the school bus route are informed to the school.

The school bus driver’s role as a communicator is of utmost importance. The parents feel comfortable to leave their children in the hands of a reliable and able bus driver. Similarly, the school management is at ease when they are convinced that student safety is assured.

The bus driver is the most often met personnel of a school. The parents meet the driver on a daily basis and communicate with him. A smiling and friendly bus driver reaches out to the children as well as the parents.

The students on the bus tend to fight and bully each other. It is the bus driver who resolves these minor skirmishes. Any major fight or quarrel is reported to the school authorities. It is the school bus driver’s duty to ensure discipline and safety on the bus. He has to see that no injury is caused.

PROS

Technology and automation have resulted in the production of driverless buses. Driverless buses, as the name suggests, helps in doing away with drivers.

Driverless buses are a boon when school bus drivers are in shortage. As such, the system does not seem to need human drivers any more.

Recruitment and hiring of drivers can be a gargantuan task involving high expenditures. Autonomous buses will reduce the costs and the several constraints in hiring drivers.

The need for staff, both supervisorial and managerial staff to manage the drivers and the human resources staff to recruit them, is minimal. A decrease in personnel means drastic reductions in operating costs.

Autonomous vehicles are considered safer. Driverless vehicles are not likely to engage in risky driving. Driver inattention or the driver’s lack of knowledge of the rules is not relevant. The vehicles obey traffic rules and travel at a steady speed.

The numerous sensors, cameras and radars on the autonomous vehicles detect traffic lights, recognize obstacles and brakes autonomously. When the bus approaches the stops, the doors are opened and closed automatically.

The cameras scan the road and the radars monitor the traffic ahead. The data generated drives the bus on an exacting and precise route.

Autonomous buses are efficient in routing and scheduling school bus trips. They follow set routes scheduled to be covered in fixed times. It is easy to change the routes if required.

The wear and tear of an autonomous vehicle is less than that of a human-driven vehicle due to the predictive driving style. Frequent accelerations and braking do not happen as the vehicle travels at steady speeds.

The vehicles have lower fuel consumption and lower emission rates. This reduces vehicle breakdowns and curtails maintenance expenses.

The reduced expenses make it cheaper to utilize autonomous school buses, improving the mobility and the speed of operations.

The low-risk, low-speed driverless vehicle would help schools in cutting costs and improving the efficiency of their transportation system.

CONS

A shift to automated autonomous buses will eliminate the need for drivers causing huge unemployment issues in the community.

An automated driverless bus can solve mobility issues. But in areas where human interaction is required it fails.

Parents choose school buses as the means of transportation as it is considered the safest option with a responsible driver on board. A good percentage of parents are not willing to let their children ride in driverless vehicles.

Parents are at peace when knowing their child is in safe hands. Students feel comfortable when travelling with a known person. Driverless buses will not cater to these emotional needs. This human need is of importance and is of concern when not addressed.

Bus drivers who have been servicing the same route over a period of years are known to the students and parents. He is compassionate and helps students when in distress. The driver is a figure they look up to as role models. Drivers, in many cases, are even treated as part of the family.

Special needs children need to be assisted into the bus. The school bus driver is trained to help them. The needs of special children cannot be met by an autonomous vehicle.

An adult authority on a school bus becomes necessary to maintain discipline and safety on board. Problems like fights and quarrels between students have to be addressed before it escalates to violence.

In cases of emergency, like a fire, an adult on the bus will help in guiding the children into safety. When breakdowns and accident occurs mid-way to school, the students on the bus have to be transferred to a safer transport while still on the road.

It is the school bus driver that assists the students in these emergencies. An autonomous vehicle with no driver will lead to disastrous results in such cases.

A school bus driver keeps watching the students on the bus. If he finds a child predator, which has inadvertently entered the bus, he can inform the police and all authorities concerned to safeguard the children on the bus. In a driverless bus this aspect of safety cannot be governed.

The bus driver acts as a liaison between the students on the bus and the school. They are the first to respond to any crisis. Any untoward occurrences encountered on his route are reported immediately enabling school administration to respond quickly.

Another drawback noted in autonomous vehicles is that despite the numerous functions on board, the cleaning and vehicle inspection cannot be assigned to any software. It would be complicated to assign these functions to robotic designs and may result in inaccuracy.

RECOMMENDED USE

Autonomous buses, in a school’s context, may be used ideally when buses are required for special events.

When a breakdown occurs to a regular bus on a scheduled trip, driverless buses can be deployed in picking up the students and completing the trip. This operation will save time and inconvenience to the students.

In short, driverless buses can be used occasionally to assist and increase the efficiency of the normal bus operations.

Autonomous buses can be utilized as school buses as the cost of operation is low. But an adult on board the bus is essential to ensure the happiness of the student and the parent alike. As for the school, an aide on board the bus is necessary to maintain the discipline and safety of the students.

Though fully automated vehicles require no drivers, the need for personnel on board to assist with discipline and safety is envisaged. A school bus driver’s human touch will still be required. An autonomous vehicle can never be a match for human interaction.

Sex Offenders On School Buses

Posted on July 9, 2019March 28, 2024 by TSB Super Admin

Sexual offenses are of different types. Rape, child molestation and sexual abuse are the most common. Rapists commit rape, child molesters sexually abuse minors and sexual abuse is forceful sexual contact.

Sex offenders use different modus operandi to lure or abduct their victims. Children are innocent and are unable to comprehend a predator’s actions.

Sex offenders can be found on the school buses and off the school buses at bus-stops and near schools.

Sex offenders on school buses

Sex offenders manage to get on the school buses mainly when it has been parked at locations or when the driver leaves the bus unattended for a short while. This happens mostly when the children go out on field trips or school picnics.

Sex offenders, mainly interested in molesting children, pry open the doors of the bus or simply walk in. They hide behind the bus where the driver’s visibility is low. It is horrifying for all to find an offender amidst a bunch of students.

It is now mandatory that the drivers do a walk-through of the bus while entering or exiting a bus. This ensures that no one has entered and that the seats are empty. He has to do a front- to- back check of the bus before he lets the children in.

In some cases, the sex offender steals a school bus and drives it along the route found in the bus. This happens when the keys are left on the bus. Bus drivers have to take extra care to see that the keys are off the bus and the windows and doors are locked before he leaves the bus.

Sex offenders off school buses

School bus stops are normally decided upon by taking into consideration parental demands as well as traffic regulations. The potential hazard mostly overlooked is the proximity of the bus stops to sex offender’s homes.

It is dangerous to have children wait unsupervised near homes of habitual offenders with a past history of sexual abuse. Sexual predators stalk and abduct children. Locating stops at such places are causes for trouble.

School districts while charting the routes and fixing stops do not always succeed in steering clear of sex offender proximity. But they do heed to parental concerns and shift the stops as per their request.

Pre-cautions

A register with the police provide a list of sex offenders in a particular area. School districts can access them before fixing stops. These lists are available to transportation personnel and the public.

Several states publish data online with details of name, street address and photo and even criminal history of the sex offender. They are categorized as low, medium and high risk offenders. Medium and high-risk offenders are those who have committed violent crimes or who repeat offenses.

School officials are entitled to view this list. Parents and community members can access this list. It would be advisable to consult all parties concerned before a stop is fixed or moved. This will help in reducing potential danger to the children.

As the parent it would be advisable to do a pre-emptive check on the neighborhood for any sex offenders residing there. All registered offenders do not pose a threat as they may not be involved with children. It would be pertinent to be constantly aware of them and to not instigate a problem with them.

Parents have to chaperone their children to the bus-stop however inconvenient it may be. Chaperoning duties can be shared among parents of children using the same bus stop.

Even if the bus stop is moved from the vicinity of a sex offender he will still be in the neighborhood. Hence it would be wise to escort the child to the bus stop daily to ward off any unwanted situations.

School districts are to be notified by parents of any danger to their child’s safety. If alerted promptly the bus stops can be moved.

Each school district being different, the policy on sex offenders differ. It is best the parents update themselves and be aware of the policies.

Software used in school bus routing and scheduling have functions that alert the user when the bus stop is close to that of a registered offender. The application treats the student similar to that living on a hazardous road and creates a bus stop in front of the student’s residence.

Educating children, parents and community members about the possible predatory behavior of child molesters is essential. Distributing pamphlets, information, public announcements to parents, students, teachers, school staff, the care givers can create awareness of the potential problems. Persons who are frequently in touch with children should be wary and pay attention to any such individuals.

Educating the young students about the threats they may face from the apparently friendly strangers and known persons is necessary. Children of all ages have to be educated on unnatural behavior in an age-appropriate manner that they can comprehend.

Punishment

Sexual conduct against a child, predatory sexual assault, stalking a child, using a child in sexual acts, distributing indecent material to children, luring a child, aggravated assault on a child and persistent sexual abuse are crimes of sexual exploitation.

The maximum penalty for these crimes against children is 15 years of imprisonment and the minimum sentence is probation depending on the crime.

If the sex offender is a driver, they are permanently disqualified or banned for 5 years depending on the severity of the action.

Behavioral aspects

To detect sex offenders who are not registered is not easy. They skillfully manipulate the child, family and community with kindness and charm. His behavior is attributed to normal adult-child relations. His deviant intentions go unnoticed.

The sex offender gains access to the vulnerable child, gains the child’s trust, and assures the child’s secrecy to avoid disclosure. He will try to isolate the child from the rest.

Child molesters seek jobs that bring them into contact with children. They come as teachers, bus drivers, coaches or even counselors. In professional capacities the molester has access to the child alone after school hours or on field trips.

The chances of convicted sex offenders repeating an offense cannot be gauged accurately. Professionals dealing with them admit that a good number of them do re-offend.

Adult sex offenders are found unlikely to change in behavior even with counseling and help. Experts say that most of the offenders repeat if not given professional help.

No amount of technology can completely protect children from harmful situations. School and parents have to work together to offer protection to the children.

5 Key Points For School Districts To Reduce Operating Costs

Posted on July 3, 2019 by TSB Super Admin

School districts constantly face the predicament of increasing expenses versus decreasing revenue. They have to provide education without compromising on quality.

Reducing operating costs involves controlling expenses by eliminating unnecessary spending or reducing costs to stay with the constraints of a budget.

The costs of day to day operations can be curtailed with close monitoring of factors that aid in reducing expenses.

1. Financial plan

The very first step for school districts is to draw up a financial plan within the budget provided. This can then be used as a benchmark to monitor progress and expenses.

The plan needs to list the cost of significant activities listed out for the academic session, the specific strategy to be used in carrying out the activities and the resources to be used to complete the activities successfully.

A periodic comparison of costs incurred in all schools in the district will serve as a tool to guide the schools on economizing expenses.

Shortfall faced in revenue points to poor management of resources. Any financial surplus or excess balances in the school districts indicate that the money is not being used wisely to improve the outcomes of the children. Hence balancing the budget is extremely crucial in effectively running a school.

2. Staffing costs

The cost of hiring personnel forms the major share of a school district’s budget. It is estimated that 80% of the budget is spent on employees.

Schools have to utilize their staff to the best effect. Hiring competent teachers reduce training costs. Support roles have to be created for the staff so that they can be deployed in lieu of staff absences.

Recruitment costs have to be kept to a minimum. Strategies to retain staff and reduce staff turnover have to be implemented. Reducing workloads help in staff retention.

Staffing needs to be flexible based on the number of students. At the start of academic sessions, the total number of students and teachers has to be tabulated.

Surplus teachers in any school may be deployed to schools facing shortage of staff instead of being kept idle. This will help in curtailing excessive recruitment.

Digital resources provided to teachers for lesson preparation saves time. Multiple users can use the resources saving expenditure in procuring them. Replacing manual attendance registers with automated ones saves expenses on stationery.

Teachers are to be deployed where they have maximum impact. This is to be decided from the results attained in the various activities.

Employment of two part-time staff to cover the duties of full-time employee results in an increase in health insurance costs. It is better to employ full-time employees to reduce costs.

3. Transportation costs

Expenses on fuel are the highest in transportation costs. A fleet of school buses catering to all the schools in the district will be beneficial in lowering transportation expenses.

A school bus plying on a single route may be scheduled to pick up students of different schools residing on that particular route. This reduces the need for separate buses for each school.

Implementing routing software ensures the routes taken by the buses are efficient and reasonable. The software minimizes the number of buses needed while optimizing transportation times.

This automatically reduces fuel consumption, the number of drivers and support staff, and wear and tear of the vehicle subsequently lowering expenses.

Cost of purchase of new buses can be shared between schools. The cost of maintenance too is shared. In case of breakdowns, replacement buses can be deployed from the fleet quickly saving cost and time. Prudent disposal of old buses will reduce the cost of major maintenance.

4. Utility bills

Another key factor to reduce expenses is to intentionally bring down the electricity bills. Lighting accounts for half of the electric bills in all schools.

Replacing standard light bulbs with energy efficient LED light bulbs and fixtures in all schools will drastically reduce energy consumption. Low watt compact fluorescent bulbs can be used in classrooms.

Automated systems to switch off all lights, fans and air-condition equipment at specified times can be installed. Occupancy sensors that automatically turn off the lights when no one is in the room can be installed in classrooms and other common areas to save energy and reduce the expenses on electricity.

To minimize heating and cooling costs programmable thermostats can be installed. This will help to minimize operating hours of the system in low occupancy areas like the gym and cafeteria. Regular maintenance of the filters maximizes efficiency and minimizes utility bills.

Another area of high energy demand is in the functioning of office equipment, computers, refrigerators and other appliances. All equipments are to be connected to surge protectors and have to be turned off when not in use during the night, over weekends and during holidays.

Installation of energy star equipment can save up to 50% on costs. Regular maintenance protects the appliances and detects leakages or short circuits if any.

Conditioning the users to more conservative ways of usage and energy-minded behavior will help in control of the utility bills. This includes the use of less water and turning off lights when leaving the area of operation.

5. Optimal use of resource and facilities

The administrators have to enforce the use of technology to reduce paperwork, printing and postage. E-mails and telephone messages have to be sent to communicate with schools and parents.

Online banking systems have to be adopted for payments thus eliminating the need for paper checks.

Leasing of lines for software and internet applications might turn expensive in the long run with rental costs being increased periodically.

A one-time investment, though heavy, will prove beneficial in cutting costs. The costs can be shared by schools functioning close to each other.

The school districts need to have a centralized purchase program wherein all the requirements are consolidated and supplied.

This type of procuring helps in obtaining volume discounts. They get better deals than buying at retail stores. This saves time and the need for

In today’s scenario where technology helps logistics immensely, it is not necessary to have large spaces for storage.

Purchase orders can be placed only when required, specifying the time and date of delivery, to avoid overstocking of materials. The districts can thus save on money spent on hiring warehouses and other storage spaces.

If the number of students and employees are higher in a school, catering in-house might prove cost-effective. School districts can think of a centralized kitchen supplying to all schools.

This involves transportation costs. Cost comparison between outdoor and in-house catering would be ideal before a decision is taken.

Building maintenance is an area which normally is overlooked and results in major expenditure. Implementation of regular building checks to detect problem areas is essential.

An in-house ad-hoc maintenance team would be ideal rather than maintenance providers. This team can be utilized for other services during down times.

It would be advisable to have pamphlets distributed on energy conservation methods to students and staff.

Posters placed around the school stating the need for conservation of energy and resources will serve as constant reminders.

It is always worthwhile to collaborate with other schools to share details of processes and ideas to achieve economies of scale.

Regular evaluation of the school’s performance allows for better allocation of funds to the more successful activities.

Whatever the factors involved, general awareness to reduce expenses has to be created in all persons and activities involved. The efforts initiated on individual school levels will reflect on the school district’s success in reducing operating expenses.

Inexpensive Gifts for Your Fellow Students (School Bus Driver Viewpoint)

Posted on June 28, 2019 by TSB Super Admin

Not only teachers, school bus drivers also provide gifts for students in their bus, when they return back to school after or before vacation or in any special occasion or even during their retirement.

However, choosing the right gifts to express appreciation for them can be a huge challenge mainly due to high prices. Often, drivers cannot afford costly gifts that too for all the students in the bus.

Here are some inexpensive gift ideas to surprise students

1. Crayons

Crayons are perfect options that add charm to a driver’s gift. Your gift will be really great for those young artists, as they can use the most vibrant colors in their little hands to expose their talent.

Often this set comes in a convenient package and also includes a crayon sharpener. You can also make crayons from old and broken ones, that too in any shape you prefer which will really write younger students

2. Water bottles – personalized

Students will love such aluminum, steel or plastic water bottles that are personalized. Along with keeping students hydrated, they will be pleasant to see their names written in it, while coloring you can use sharpies or even colored stick-on letters to decorate these cost effective bottles.

3. Play dough

Play dough is a valuable gift, as it offers a variety of educational opportunities for kids in classroom as well as home. It can improve motor skills and can also release stress.

With play dough, it is also easy to teach all math shapes and concepts. You can even make the dough at home with an easy recipe and present it to students. Making play dough is easy using flour, salt, water, vegetable oil as well as food coloring.

4. Painted rocks

This is an easy to make gift. Just collect flat smooth rocks from outside and then paint them well with attractive colors and designs that kids like. These designs will also provide the best rock painting ideas for kids.

Make sure to clean and dry the rocks before painting the rocks. Magical markers can also be used instead of paint. Types of rocks you can choose for painting include sedimentary, igneous or metamorphic.

5. Game boards

This game board can provide happy memories for kids with their family and friends during weekends and vacation. Such a game can also build solid relationships between students in classroom. This provides them training to come out of challenges and win the situation.

You can also design your own board games that can even serve as an educational tool. For instance, creating math games help kids to improve their knowledge in math facts as well as concepts in new ways and environments.

6. Stamped pencils

These are less expensive gifts for students, which they will be using for a long time. Not only names, you can also write up some sweet or inspirational messages or phrases in such pencils. Hexagon shape pencil sets provide space to stamp either student’s name or any quotes.

These pencils can be made easily at home, for which you require only a few items such as metal stamp set, metal heart stamp, small hammer, pencils and small stamp pad. Let them add this gift to their pencil cases.

7. Punch balloons

Sure, kids will like this lovely gift. These balloons are ideal for indoor as well as outdoor fun and events.

Available in different sizes and colors, these balloons that are good for punching and bouncing also keeps children active as well as entertained. It is better to let the children blow them or at the end of the day in class.

8. Elf hats

If it is Christmas occasion, elf hats are perfect gifts for kids. These elf hats will take students to a holiday season. It is also easy to make these easy to wear as well as comfortable hats at home.

Also the key items required for this craft such as glue, stapler, cotton ball, construction paper, scissors and a pen will often be available at home.

Hope these ideas help you buy wonderful gift for students without breaking your savings.

What To Do When A School Bus Catches Fire

Posted on June 18, 2019 by TSB Super Admin

Bus transportation is considered as one of the safest modes of transit for students. But, a fire resulting from a collision or failure of a component puts lives at risk and can have an enormous impact on operational costs as well.

There are diverse reasons that can cause fire in a school bus – due to mechanical failures, wires got loose and rub against engine parts, overload of circuit boards, explosion of tires or even leaks that release inflammatory fluids.

In most cases, school bus fires start in the engine area, running gear, or wheel area of the vehicle. Studies analyze that the most frequent cause of ignition was failure of equipment or heat source.

Along with transporting students safe to and from school, school bus drivers and attendees may have to handle even certain emergency situations such as a bus crash, accident or fire.

In such a situation, they are responsible to supervise all students and follow procedures for the appropriate release of students

According to the U.S. government statistics, on an average – 379 school bus fires happen each year, though deaths are rare from such fire incidents.

Drivers in school bus must be well trained by the school district board to take immediate action, if they doubt any smoke or fire in any portion of the bus or even if the bus is near an existing fire and they are unable to move the bus away.

In such a scenario, take quick actions such as

Stop the bus in a safe area
Vacate the bus
Call Bus Dispatch number
Use fire extinguisher

Evacuate the bus

Organize students for a transfer to another school bus. School bus fire evacuation drills and training is important for drivers to rescue students from a burning bus.

Such drills can also help students to stay prepared in safely escaping from the bus. Students will be able to know when and how to evacuate as well as the relevance of evacuating in an orderly way.

To evacuate the bus, drivers should –

Call for bus dispatch, shut off motor, set brake and remove key
Decide the right evacuation route, which ever you think is appropriate – let that be exit door, front or side doors, roof hatch or even windows.
Ensure that the attendees are helping students to get off safely and assemble everyone together
In case of time shortage, instruct students to leave their bags and other personal belongings on the bus and make sure that everyone has left
Leave the bus only after all the students leave and remember to take your cell phone as well as the first aid kit
Follow the correct student release procedures and do not re-enter the bus until recommended by the authorities
Follow correct transfer procedures, in case if you are transferring students to another bus. Ask them to move to that bus in an orderly manner, drivers should stay alert until the transfer is complete.
Designate older students to help the young ones in evacuation

Use fire suppression systems

Fire suppression systems can help to extinguish fire immediately. Such advanced systems release a mist or powder to extinguish the fire, when the temperature reaches a certain level.

Installation and testing of such fire suppression systems in engine compartments is now getting mandatory in buses as well as coaches.

These systems –

Provide extra time for students with disabilities to leave the bus
Can put out fire for rear-engine buses, even before driver might be aware of the incident

Maintenance staff and supervisors should also undergo thorough training during installation of such systems.

School districts can take certain steps to prevent such incidents such as replacing old buses with new ones, either by purchasing them or by getting benefits from a lease program.

Drivers should be recommended to inspect their school buses daily before every trip, check for leaks and make sure that all exit doors open perfectly, making the bus ready for any such emergency situations.

10 Places To Buy A School Bus For Cheap

Posted on June 11, 2019 by TSB Super Admin

A detailed study has to be done when buying an old school bus to arrive at a wise decision.Traditionally buses were bought directly from previous users.

In this age of technology, the owners advertise the vehicle to be sold on internet sites making comparisons of the models of buses on sale easy. Bids for auctions can also be made online making the process simpler.

10 places to buy a school bus for cheap

1. Buses from schools

The best and the easiest place to find a used school bus are school districts or schools. These buses will be serviced and maintained regularly as the schools take safety of the children very seriously.

First-hand information of the buses and assessment by mechanics who have been servicing the vehicle can be obtained. On the whole, the buses from schools tend to be well taken care of.It is advantageous to buy buses directly from school districts or schools.

2. Govdeals.com

This is a government auction site. They sell a varied range of products from building materials to musical instruments. The advantage of this site is that they show the contact information of the sellers of the product.

This helps in contacting them and assessing the product before placing the bid at the auction.

3. eBay.com

eBay is another place to search for a school bus. eBay provides a wider area of search and one can opt for local pick up. The biggest advantage of using eBay is that they have a money back policy.

If you don’t receive the item ordered, if the item is faulty or damaged, or if the features do not match the description all the money paid will be refunded.

4. Publicsurplus.com

Public Surplus is an auction site which is open to the general public. The businesses post their surplus items for sale and auction on this site.

They sell all sorts and types of surplus items in addition to buses. So their bids start very low. The auction items have detailed descriptions. They also mention who is auctioning the item. You can have a better idea of the condition of the bus before placing the bid.

5. Craiglist.com

This option enables one to find an affordable bus in the area closer to school. A thorough checking of the bus is recommended before actual purchase.

6. The Facebook marketplace

This is another version of Craigslist. This helps in finding a bus locally. It is beneficial to buyers who do not want to travel for purchases.

7. Nwbus.com

This site sells different types of buses. You can buy used buses or new. You can even build a bus to your requirement. The prices are slighter higher. But this place ensures that you are getting a bus that has been fully maintained and inspected for safety.

The site also offers finance options to pay for the bus. They have efficient customer service networks who respond promptly.

8. American Bus Sales

American Bus Sales has been a trusted supplier of used buses from 2004. They have a wide range of buses including Blue Bird, Thomas, Ford, Chevrolet, IC buses. Most of the buses they come with added benefits of a warranty.

9. National Bus Sales

National Bus Sales offers used school buses from a variety of brands including Blue Bird, Chevrolet, Collins, Ford, Starcraft, Thomas, Midbus, and Titan.

A search of their bus inventory for featured school buses will help in spotting the required vehicle. The benefit of buying from National Bus Sales is the extensive warranty support offered by them.

Most vehicles carry an existing manufacturer’s warranty, a two year drive train warranty and an additional warranty backed by National Bus Sales Quality Guarantee. They offer commercial warranties for school buses 10 years old.

10. Central States Bus

Central States Bus is a one-stop shop for school transportation needs. They deal in new and used buses. They have a stock of spare parts and accessories. They provide technical support. Their vehicles come with warranties.

Factors to be considered while buying an old school bus

The availability of used buses, suppliers of buses and technical and mechanical aspects have to be thoroughly checked before the actual purchase is made. A feasibility study is warranted to assess whether the overall cost is cheap and if the purchase is worth the money paid.

In addition to seating capacity, comforts of the driver and condition of the vehicle, a look at the following factors in detail would be of immense help while buying an old school bus.

1. Look to suitable regions:

Buses being used in areas without snow and rain will be in better conditions. Rain and snow causes rust and faster deterioration of mechanical equipment. Buses plying in drier regions will have lesser chances of rusty parts.

2. Type of buses

There are front and rear engine buses. Front engine buses come at a lower cost and higher seating capacity. Rear engine buses are slightly more expensive and have a lower seating capacity.

3. Driver comfort

The conventional front engine buses have the engine in front of the driver. The drivers have to endure the heat which is uncomfortable. The drivers prefer rear engine buses.

4. History of the bus

Knowledge of the number of years the bus has been in operation and the mileage covered gives a very basic idea about the condition of the bus.

Older buses in all probability would have had their engine or transmissions replaced. The date of replacement and details of equipment used has to be obtained.

5. Chassis and engine

The condition of the chassis determines the life of the bus. Ensuring the engine is in perfect condition is important. These two parts have the biggest cost factor.

6. Rust

In places where it snows heavily during winter the roads are heavily salted. This causes the vehicles to rust. Rains too cause rust on the metal parts partly due to ageing of the buses and partly due to the quality of the metal used. Rust spreads.

Most of the old school buses will have rust. The buyer needs to make sure that the rust is minimal and easy to remove.

7. Worn out tires

When school buses go on sale their tires would be worn out, it would be advisable to check the amount of tread left on them. Replacing four to six tires of a school bus would cost thousands and may not make the purchase viable.

On the contrary worn out tires can be used as pretext to lower the price of the bus given that everything else on the bus is in perfect working condition.

8. Fluid leaks

Check the underneath of the bus for leaks, cracked hoses, oils or other fluids. It would not be advisable to buy a bus that is found to be leaking.

Fixing serious problems mechanical aspects in an old bus can become very expensive. It would be better to avoid buying buses with mechanical and engine problems however cheap they may be.

9. Battery condition

Bus batteries, per se, are very expensive to replace. An assessment of how old the battery is and when it was replaced is essential. It is better to check the battery for corrosion and leakage.

The battery compartment has to be corrosion free. The battery has to be in good working condition as the bus has to perform in varied weather conditions.

Traffic Violations and Penalties in India

Posted on June 4, 2019 by TSB Super Admin

The rules and regulations for Indian drivers named “Rules of the Road Regulation’ came into effect in 1989. Since then these rules have been amended time and again to include the changes in the growing traffic and road networks.

The Indian Motor Vehicle Act specifies the traffic rules common to all states in India. Motorists have to obey these rules as well as city specific traffic police rules. These rules are applicable to two, three and four wheelers, multi-axle buses and trucks.

The regulations are strictly implemented to maintain discipline and encourage safe driving. A reduction in accidents, smooth flow of traffic and safety of pedestrians are the concern of the traffic police in every city.

Any violations of these laws incur penalties and punishments.Violations are related to driving, traffic signals, parking, vehicle specification, driver behavior, documents etc.

VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES

RELATED TO DOCUMENTS

Driving without a valid driving license	Rs 500 and/or imprisonment (3 months)
Vehicle without registration certificate (RC) book	Rs.2000 to Rs.5000 for depending on vehicle type
Nonavailability of documents while driving as specified in the Motor Vehicle Act	Rs. 500
Driving without valid insurance	Rs. 1000 and/or imprisonment (3 months)
Driving without valid permit	Rs. 2000 to Rs 5000 as the case may be
Driving without valid vehicle fitness certificate	Rs. 2000 to Rs 5000 as the case may be
Driving by a person below 18 years (minor)	Rs. 500
Allowing one’s vehicle to be driven by an un-licensed or an under-aged person	Rs. 1000 and/or imprisonment (3 months)
License holder allowing his license to be used by another	Rs. 100 for first offence
Disqualified person applying for license or driving a vehicle	Rs. 500 and/or imprisonment (3 months)
Offences relating to licenses	Rs. 500

RELATED TO DRIVING

Driving without fastening seatbelts	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Over speeding/driving above the speed limits	Rs. 400 for first offence Rs.1000 for subsequent offences
Abetment for over speeding	Rs. 300 for first offence Rs. 500 for subsequent offences
Use of mobile phone while driving	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Driving dangerously/abetment	Rs.1000 for first offence and/or 6 months Rs.2000 for subsequent offences and/or 2 years
Hazardous overtaking	Rs. 100
Failing to give way for overtaking	Rs. 100
Overtaking from the wrong side	Rs. 100
Driving in the centre of the road without keeping left	Rs. 100
Not driving in the proper lane	Rs. 100
Driving against a one way	Rs. 100
Reversing without caution	Rs. 100
Taking U turns during forbidden hours	Rs. 100
Failing to slow down at intersection/ junctions	Rs. 100
Carrying people on footboard	Rs. 100
Overloading on bikes and two-wheelers	Rs. 100
Driving on the footpath	Rs. 100
Obstructing a pedestrian crossing	Rs. 100
Violating the yellow lines	Rs. 100
Violating the stop line	Rs. 100
Violating mandatory road signs	Rs. 100
Non-compliance with traffic signals/sign boards	Rs. 100
Not providing appropriate signals	Rs. 100
Crossing red signal lights	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Driving or allowing to drive a vehicle carrying excess load	Rs. 2000 minimum and additional Rs.1000 per ton of excess load plus charges for offloading excess load
Refusal of driver to submit his vehicle to weighing	Rs. 3000
Driving under the influence of alcohol/abetment	Rs. 2000 for first offence and/or 6 months Rs. 3000 for second offence and/or 2 years
Driving when mentally or physically unfit to drive/its abetment	Rs. 200 for first offence Rs.500 for subsequent offences
Driver permits another person to obstruct his control of the vehicle	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Driver and pillion rider failing to wear helmets	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Abandoning vehicles in public places unattended/Obstructive parking	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Any person in- charge who permits travelling on the running board	Rs. 100 for first offence/ Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Failure to take precautions at Railway crossings	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Carrying explosive and inflammable Substances	Rs.100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Parking a disabled vehicle causing impediment to free flow of traffic	Rs. 50 per hour besides towing charges
Running unauthorized routes without permits	Rs.2000 to Rs.5000for first offence Rs. 10000 for subsequent offences
Causing accident driving a defective vehicle or Trailer	Rs.250 for first offence. Rs.1000 for second offence or imprisonment for three months
Driving in a public place violating prescribed standards for road safety, pollution, noise control	Rs. 1000 for first offence Rs. 2000 for subsequent offences
Violating provisions of MV Act regarding dangerous and hazardous goods	Rs.3000 for first offence and/ or 1 year imprisonment Rs. 5000 for subsequent offences and/or 3 years imprisonment
Racing and speed trials	Rs. 500 and/or 1 month imprisonment

RELATED TO VEHICLE

Driving without number plates	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Improper use of headlights and tail lights	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Using high beam when not required	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Driving without a horn	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Improper use of horn while driving	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Unauthorized alteration of vehicle	Rs.100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Taking a vehicle without authority	Rs.500 and/or imprisonment for 3 months
Absence of wiper	Rs.100
Absence of windscreen, side mirrors	Rs.100
Absence of brake lights or indicators	Rs.100
Absence of spare wheel	Rs.100
Absence of silencer	Rs.100
Park lights not working	Rs.100
Provision of audio-visual equipment affecting road safety and noise control	Rs.1000
Speedometer not working	Rs.100

RELATED TO TRAFFIC AUTHORITIES

Disobeying directions from MV authorities	Rs. 500
Disobeying a traffic policeman in uniform	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent ffences
Disregarding of policeman signals	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Driver/ conductor failing to produce his license, certificates of registration, insurance vehicle permit, fitness on demand to police in a public place or any other officer of the Motor VehiclesDepartment	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
When driver is accused of offence under the MV Act and fails to provide information	Rs.500 for first offence and/or 3 months imprisonment Rs.1000 for subsequent offences and/or 6 months imprisonment
In case of accidents, failure to report to the police, failure to provide information to the insurer and failure to provide medical aid to victims	Rs.500 for first offence and/or 3 months imprisonment Rs.1000 for subsequent offences and/or 6 months imprisonment
Selling of altered vehicles violating MV Act	Rs.500

RELATED TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Ticketless travel in buses	Rs. 500
Failure to produce Drivers Badge in public Transport	Rs. 100
Failure to wear uniform	Rs. 100
Smoking or chewing any intoxicating drug or drink	Rs. 100
Replenishing fuel tank with passengers on board	Rs. 100
Overloading of passengers or luggage	Rs. 500 – Rs.3000 as the case maybe
Non-adherence to time schedule	Rs. 100
Failure to maintain trip sheet	Rs.100
Violating taxi stand rules	Rs.100
Usage of multi toned horn affecting noise Standards	Rs.300
Failure to fit taximeter	Rs. 100
Failure to set taximeter in operation on trips	Rs.100
Carrying persons in excess of seating capacity in goods carriage	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Demanding excess fare by taxi/auto rickshaw	Rs. 100 for first offence Rs.300 for subsequent offences
Carrying animals without providing sufficient space	Rs. 100
Uncivil behavior towards passengers	Rs.100
Absence of first-aid box	Rs.100
Destination board not exhibited/illuminated	Rs. 100
Exhibiting advertisements without sanction	Rs.100
Failure to accept tendered fare	Rs.500
Issue invalid ticket	Rs.500

The basic traffic rules apply to all two-wheelers also. In addition to this, two-wheeler riders should compulsorily wear helmets.

In many states it is stipulated that pillion riders too should wear helmets. Rear view mirrors and indicators are to be used. Pillion riders should not exceed more than one.

Owner of the vehicles driven by juveniles will be held responsible for the offence committed unless they prove that it was without their knowledge or they tried to prevent it.

The registration of the vehicle driven will be cancelled. The juvenile will be tried under the Juvenile Justice Act.

Penalties and fines have been instituted to educate the general public on the do’s and don’ts while driving.

Strict adherence to these rules will help the traffic department to streamline operations reducing risks for drivers, passengers and pedestrians.

How To Start A Student Transportation Business

Posted on May 28, 2019 by TSB Super Admin

In today’s world, parents struggle to find a balance between the conflicting schedules of their children and their own. A child’s daily schedule might include being picked and dropped from pre-school.

Later in the day, the child might need to go for extra activities like Sports, arts or language classes. The different timings and locations make it hard for busy parents to pick and drop them from school and from the other varied activities.

A solution to this wide-spread problem would be a trusted and viable source of transport which would reach the children to various places at the right times and bring them back home safely.

This type of service would be of great help to working parents who cannot take time off to take their children around.

1. Business Plan

Starting a children’s transport business is like running any other business. The business involves more than picking up and dropping children.

The key to success lies in marketing the idea and finding the right users. A research will reveal the markets that can be tapped for business.

The idea or motive behind starting a business should be the lifeline of the business. In children’s transportation business is customer and service driven.

A service that offers something different, from what the specific or similar industry do, will make it stand apart.

A plan detailing what ages and areas are to be served, hours of operation, fee structure, finances have to be drawn. A well written business plan will serve as a reference for future checks throughout the year.

Structure of the business will depend on whether it is a partnership or sole proprietorship. Once the structure is finalized local and state licenses, tax identification numbers and other legal requirements have to be applied for.

Sufficient capital is required to pay expenses until the business becomes profitable. These funds come from own savings, friends or private investors. Bank loans can be availed to start the business.

When executing you enter the market in a low or medium key. It can be further expanded depending on the response.

Workspace can be one’s home or space shared with another business or a leased office. Customer is the key to any business.

2. Objective

The objective of a transportation business catering to children should be to provide a safe and convenient method of transportation. It should be licensed, reliable and available to parents at reasonable prices.

The aim of the business is service. The children’s transportation business is service driven offering maximum satisfaction to customers. The priority is to become a trusted source for parents to rely on.

3. Market

Children’s transportation service is required and highly essential for any child activity that does not have its own form of transport.

Day-care facilities, pre-school, activity centers, recreational arena that do not provide transport facilities can be targeted for business.

Periodical agreements with them will assure a minimum number of children availing this service.

The market should be focused on the middle class working parents, both single and dual. This segment of the population is found to be the most active and so are their children.

The working parents are interested in activities to keep their children occupied. Their children avail day-care services summer schools and sports activities.

Households with children under the age of 18 have to be targeted. The Organizational focus should be on children. Their safety and welfare should be the priority.

Densely populated residential areas which are in proximity to the day cares or activity centers can be identified as the area of operation. A specified radius in kilometers can be fixed within which the transport can be used.

4. Promotion

Formal introduction letters giving an explanation of the services provided are to be mailed. A request to respond if interested is to be included.

The letters can be sent to households in the vicinity identified for operation. They can be sent to day-care owners, pre-schools, recreational activity centers.

The brochure must include operational information required by the clients. It should include the features and benefits of using the service.

Rules and regulations, hours and rates should also be mentioned in detail. Description of your qualifications, the process of selection of drivers, reliability and safety of vehicles can be mentioned.

Advertisements can be inserted in the local publications. As a part of personal selling, parents and schools in the community can be made aware of the existence of the intended service.

Creating special offers for the first time users and repeat customers can ensure customer loyalty.

5. Vehicle Selection

The type and size of the vehicle needed is to be decided initially. Mini-vans are easy to maneuver in traffic but the number of seats may be limited. Small buses require special operating licenses but can carry more passengers.

Mini-vans which meet the federal safety standards are a good option to ply in populated areas.

Child safety features of seat belts, safety locks, shoulder harnesses and dual airbags are a must and should be provided in the vans.

Stringent maintenance schedules have to be adhered to ensure that the vehicles are safe and reliable to travel.

GPS units and radio communication equipment in the vehicle would be an added advantage. If special needs children are served handicap capable vehicles would be needed.

6. Staff

Every business has two main aspects. One is the customer and the other the employee. If attractive benefits are offered to employees they will take care of the customers.

If interesting options are provided to customers they will use the service which leads to increase in profits.

If the business has to run smoothly, dedicated employees should be hired. Hiring good people will increase productivity.

They will cause less trouble. It is important that they are paid on time, appreciated in public and reprimanded in private.

In a children’s transportation business the driver is the main employee. He is the one in constant interaction with the children, their parents and the owners of the business. So hiring competent drivers is the first step to ensure success.

Drivers with a valid chauffeur’s driving license are to be recruited. A background check has to be done. They should have had previous driving experience withexcellent track records.

They must have a First aid and CPR certificate. They must be genuinely interested in the care and welfare of children.

Other employees too should be chosen carefully as they are the ones who talk to customers. They should be easily available and should make the customer feel important. They should be capable to respond to requests as soon as possible.

Employee training and monitoring are very critical to providing an excellent service to customers. Background checks are done for all employees. All employees have to be trained in customer service and office procedures.

Drivers need to work with parents while establishing routes. They have to keep a detailed record of pick-ups and drop-offs. A time log, records of distance and fuel consumption are essential.

They have to have good time management to be punctual at all times. They have to be patient with children. They should be able to handle the pressure of traffic outside and also the screaming and noisy kids inside the vehicle.

Periodic feedback from the users is to be sought to ensure that the service is to the satisfaction of the customer. Any shortcomings need to be addressed with minimal delays.

Checking constantly or on a daily basis with the drivers and employees on what they require to perform better is essential. Resources have to be provided so that they can to do their job most effectively.

7. Vehicle Utilization

The vehicles can be utilized to transport children during the peak times – early morning 7-8am, mid-afternoon 11-12 and evening 3-5pm. Routes can be charted taking into account the number of children and destinations.

During non-peak hours administrative and marketing work can be done. The vehicles can be used to run emergency trips to clinics with sick children or for prior appointments.

8. Fee Structure

Rate schedules should be handed over to parents once they have enrolled their ward for the service. Detailed rates for scheduled and un-scheduled one-way trips and round trips and for extra miles have to be shown on the rate schedule. Any discounts for siblings and incentives of extra rides have to be mentioned.

Fees should be taken in advance. Payment can be made in cash or by cheque. Credit cards can be accepted if required.

9. Operating Expenses

A detailed record of day to day expenses has to be maintained. A competent accountant can keep track of the progress and problems of the business in real time.

In addition to the wages of the staff, the budget should include the cost of maintenance of the vehicle, regular cleaning charges of vehicles and fuel costs.

10. Special Requirement

Some states stipulate other requirements to operate in their areas.

Safety concerns require photo identities of the children. The necessary equipment and camera to create the ID cards will be required.

Liability insurance to cover vehicles, employees and passengers are required.

A thorough screening for drugs and background check for all employees including drivers have to be done.

Fingerprint clearance is required by many states if working with children. This is to ensure that the employees are not a threat to the safety of the children.

The business allows the advantage of being your own boss. The service offered is highly needed and appreciated. The business is ideal for at-home parents and those who love children or special needs children.

The business can be expanded if required. At the beginning it would be advisable to concentrate on hiring the right people. Later on, when a good customer base has been formed and goodwill is attained, professionals can be hired and advanced technology can be used to manage the business.

The adverse factors are driving in bad weather, high insurance rates and distractions from boisterous children.

A friendly and efficient child transportation system will offer parents the comfort of knowing that their children are in the best hands.

How To Reduce School Zone Traffic Congestion

Posted on May 24, 2019March 28, 2024 by TSB Super Admin

Traffic congestion at school zones is a safety concern for all due to queuing up of vehicles and poor visibility ahead. It inconveniences parents, students, school authorities, school bus drivers, police, and the residential neighborhood. The number of school-going students being driven to school by private cars has risen considerably in urban areas. The growth in the use of cars by parents to drop off and pick up students sees fewer children walking or biking to school. Unanticipated traffic and a large number of students at the school gates at a time render all arrangements made by schools ineffective to control traffic congestion.

Steps to Reducing School Zone Traffic Congestion

Vehicle congestion at school entrances conflicts with pedestrians and cyclists coming to school. They may not have access to sidewalks. School parking areas may be unorganized. School buses may block the visibility of pedestrians and cyclists. Parents and motorists may display unruly behavior parking in no-zone areas, double parking, speeding or ignoring traffic restrictions.

A study on the movement of the traffic in and around the school would be the first step before rules for traffic reduction are set in place. Knowing the type of roads around, availability of parking spaces, type of vehicles – vans, buses, cars- that use the road, pedestrian safe ways are a necessity to drawing up traffic plans. 1. Education on Alternative Means of Transport: One of the best ways to ease school zone traffic congestion is to reduce the number of vehicles that converge at school gates during opening and closing times. Parents state traffic hazards, time constraints, distance, and bad weather as reasons for transporting their children to school. Parents have to be educated about the alternate modes of transport their child can avail of. They have to be appraised of the role they have in reducing school zone traffic congestion and increasing student safety. This information can be provided through leaflets or PTA newsletters. Parents and students have to be educated on the benefits of walking or cycling to school. The health aspect and the impact on the environment are to be incorporated into the curriculum so that students understand the concept and are encouraged to walk. The school can reward them with a point system. Students can join walking school bus programs where an adult escorts a group of children along a pre-determined route to school. Children living within walking distance of the school can avail of this method which keeps pedestrian safety in mind. The school bus is the best option for students who live further away from school. Studies show that an approximate number of 38 cars are required to transport an average busload of 45 children. Availing school bus services can reduce traffic congestion at school access points as well as on the roads. Car-pooling is another option for students living in close-by locations. 2. Access points The number of entry and exit points in school has to be regulated. Larger the number of these points, greater will be the congestion. Situating these entrances and exits around the school where the road is bigger or accessibility to parking spaces is nearer will reduce the congestion.

Also Read: Top 18 Road Safety Rules to Teach your Students

Students walking or cycling to school have to be provided with separate entrances and exits. This will reduce the risk of accidents and traffic hold-ups around the school. Students should not be allowed to ride their cycles within the school premises. All-access points have to be locked during school hours and opened only when students have to be let in and out. Security guards have to be stationed at all access points. 3. Pick up and Drop off points

Pick up and drop off points have to be designated for cars and buses. A dedicated drop off zone away from the parking area will help in improving traffic flow. The use of alternate routes in and out of school has to be encouraged so that all vehicles do not congregate in one location. School volunteers or staff can escort children from car to school. This will quicken the drop-off process.

Read Also: Top 10 School Bus Companies

Directing different types of traffic to different locations around the school can help reduction in congestion. Bus pick-up and drop-off are assigned to one area while parents pick and drop in another area. Staff can be provided parking on a different side. 4. Parking

Temporary parking spaces for pick-up and drop-off can be created by using sign-boards for peak hours only. Parking spaces near schools in urban areas can be very limited. Unless the school has a dedicated parking area it is extremely difficult to get parking slots near the school. City councils and district councils may be approached for additional space which might infringe into neighboring areas. Consent of neighbors is essential and hence a plan can be negotiated with them for utilizing the space only during school hours after which it will remain vacant for their use. High school children driving to school have to be given clear instructions and lessons on how to park in the areas assigned to them. 5. Traffic Conditions

The timings of traffic lights in the area can be revised if necessary to suit the school period. This requires coordination with the local traffic authorities and the adjacent residential areas. Re-routing of streets will force drivers to seek alternative routes. ‘No entry’ or ‘One-way’ signs on roads leading to the school can divert traffic away from the school. Road humps can be installed to reduce the speed of vehicles.

Increased police patrolling during peak hours can be of help. Double parking, waiting in no parking zones, parking across driveways and parking too close to pedestrian crossings can be curtailed with patrolling. Doubling of traffic fines for parking offenses and speeding in the school zones are deterrents and reduce congestion. 6. School Timings Start and finish timings for elementary, middle and high school students can be staggered. Though it might prove inconvenient for parents who have children in all sections, the staggering of school timings can reduce traffic to a large extent.

There is no single solution to traffic management to avoid congestions at schools. Traffic issues differ for each school depending on their size and location. Though the general guidelines can be followed each issue has to be analyzed and dealt with accordingly.