Putnam County Schools
Transportation

515 E. Veterans Drive
Cookeville, TN 38501
Telephone: 931-526-9342
Fax: 931-372-0389

Hours

OFFICE HOURS DURING BREAKS
7:00am - 3:00pm

Putnam County Board of Education

Pupil Transportation
Rules and Regulations

As the new school year begins. thousands of children will ride the school buses to and from school. Although school buses are relatively safe,it is important for parents and Students to review some important safety roles with children when riding the school bus.

1. Students are under the supervision and control of the bus driver while on the bus, and all reasonable directions given shall be followed by showing consideration and respect for the bus driver and your fellow students. The school bus is an extension of school activity; therefore, students shall conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with the established standards for safety and classroom behavior.
2. Arrive at the bus stop on time. While waiting for the bus, students must stand away from the road. Younger students should be permitted to load first.
3. Do not fight or engage in rough play. No profane language or obscenities while waiting for the school bus, on the bus or after leaving the bus.
4. Students should not deface or cause damage to the bus in any way.
5. Tobacco products and paraphernalia are prohibited on the bus.
6. The Bus Driver has the authority to seat any or all students for any reason.
7. Emergency exits must be free from obstructions at all times. The bus driver may prohibit any equipment or object considered to be dangerous to the safety and welfare of those on board. Student possessions may not be placed in the aisle, in front of the bus or on the floor. Band instruments, ball equipment and class projects will he permitted only when they can be held on the students lap, and not obstruct the drivers view.
8. No food or drink will be consumed on the bus during regular scheduled routes. Every child should have a backpack for loose papers. Lunches may be carried in their backpack.
9. Students are only permitted to get on or off the bus at their assigned stop. To get off the bus at any other location on thee assigned route the student is required to have a permission slip signed by the parent and co-signed by the principal. Guest riders with a permission slip are only permitted to ride on a space available basis.
10. Students must remain seated at all times. They are not permitted to use the emergency windows,emergency doors or touch the safety equipment without drivers permission.
11. Students must depart from the bus in an orderly manner. Students should move away from the bus promptly to a location at least 15 feet from the roadway. If crossing the roadway the student should be at least 12 feet in front of the bus and be able to see the drivers face.
12. Students are not allowed to have in hand any pointed objects, such as pens, pencils. compasses, or protractors, while on the bus.
13. No glass containers, balloons, or animals are permitted on the bus.
14. Students are not permitted to open or close windows without the permission of the driver. Keep hands, arms, and heads inside the bus. Throwing objects in or out of the bus is prohibited.
15. The principal of the student shall be informed by the bus driver of any serious discipline problem and may be called upon to assist if necessary. A student may be denied the privilege of riding the bus if the principal determines that the students behavior is such as to cause disruption on the bus, or if the student disobeys state or local rules and regulations pertaining to student transportation.