Imagine a panicked family at school looking for their child hours after she should have arrived home. Then there’s me, a first time leader, desperately calling bus dispatch to get any information to help locate her. Did she get on the bus in the afternoon like she was supposed to? Did she get off the bus at a different stop? We quickly located her and she was safe; but this is a family and school’s nightmare. Thankfully, with updated systems and proactive planning, we can all avoid this situation.
Erin Milligan-Mattes, Possip Reporter and a seasoned instructional leader who served in the Commissioner’s Office at the Tennessee Department of Education, discusses best practices for school bus communication systems.
New Tools for an Essential Service
School bus transportation helps our kids get to school and back safely. Advances in technology have transformed the communication systems that help us manage and monitor our school bus fleets. These systems act as an extra set of eyes and ears we need to give families peace of mind.
Here are reasons to upgrade your current system, tips for improvement, and tactics for implementing a new system successfully.
Benefits of Bus Communication Systems
1. Real-time Tracking
Bus communication systems allow school and district staff to monitor buses. This provides peace of mind to parents, as they can find out where their children are between home and school. Some bus communication systems can also help keep track of student attendance. This real-time tracking helps make sure no child is unaccounted for on their way to or from school.
2. Efficient Routing
Communication systems also help schools optimize bus routes. This means less time on the bus and more savings on fuel. Efficient routing is especially important during bus driver shortages. This complicated endeavor can upend an entire district when things go awry as we saw in Kentucky at the beginning of the year. Plans built through technology can sometimes backfire, so remember to evaluate them closely and practice before implementing new plans.
3. Enhanced Safety
Some communication systems can even trigger automatic alerts to bus drivers or local officials for speeding, abrupt stops, unauthorized access to the bus, accidents, and breakdowns. Additionally, these systems can send families alerts so they’re always in the know.
Strategies to Improve Your Systems
1. Utilize Modern Technology
The following technologies can improve your bus communication system.
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Bus intercom system allows two-way communication with dispatch, school, or authorities.
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GPS trackers allow for accurate location tracking and real-time updates.
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Student rider tracking system helps keep track of student attendance, ensuring that no child is left behind or missing.
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Mobile apps provide bus locations, alerts, and communication with stakeholders.
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School safety software like KidAccount helps teachers and administrators sort students into car riders, bus, and walkers each day.
For suggestions on bus communications systems, read Forbes Best School Bus Routing Software of 2023 or 16 Best School Bus Apps in 2023 for Tracking, Routing, and More.
2. Analyze Data and Create a Feedback Loop
Bus communications system data can help improve bus services. Additionally, Possip data can help schools and districts monitor family feedback to improve the overall experience and safety. For more information about carline transportation best practices, check out Car Line Number SystemorCar Line and Transportation Solutions from Possip’s blog!
Tips to Successfully Implement New Systems
1. Proactively Communicate with Families
Consider sending letters home, handing out flyers, or utilizing the school’s website to share the following information with families:
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Bus routes with pick up and drop off times
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Bus rider code of conduct
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School discipline procedures
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Mobile app information
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School and district contact information
Operations staff should also create distribution lists based on bus routes. When schools need to communicate alerts, delays, or emergencies to families quickly, these lists help target the right audience.
2. Train Stakeholders
Bus drivers are the heroes on the road. Proper training on using bus communication systems is essential. Drivers and bus monitors should be confident in using technology and know the emergency response procedures like the back of their hand. Teachers are the first line of communication with students and parents. They also need access to bus rosters and an understanding of bus transportation procedures.
