NON-INSTRUCTIONAL OPERATIONS 8185
Use of Wireless Communication Devices by Bus Drivers
While the Board of Directors believes the use of wireless communication devices by {{School_Name}} bus drivers is important to provide instant communication regarding emergencies as well as to convey other important Charter School information, bus drivers shall be subject to the restrictions outlined in this policy to ensure safe use of personal or Charter School wireless communication devices.
For purposes of this policy, wireless communication device is defined as any device intended to facilitate communication, including but not limited to cell phones, two-way radios, walkie talkies, palm pilots, blackberries, PDAs, beepers, pagers, etc.
Bus drivers shall not place or receive communications on any personally owned wireless communication device while passengers are loading or unloading from the bus or while the bus is in motion.
Under usual circumstances, use of Charter School owned wireless communication devices shall be allowed when used to assist a driver and/or dispatcher in the necessary communications periodically needed to safely deliver children from home to school, from school to school, from school to home, and on activity trips. A school bus driver is prohibited from operating a school bus while using a cellular telephone, except:
- During an emergency situation;
- To call for assistance if there is a mechanical breakdown or other mechanical problem;
- Where a cellular telephone is owned by the School and used as a two-way radio; and
- When the school bus is parked.
Bus drivers may not use hands-free devices, unless there is an emergency situation. Bus drivers shall under no circumstances place or receive communications unrelated to Charter School business while on duty.
Violation of this policy may subject the driver to disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Legal Reference: 48 C.F.R. § 382.82 Using A Hand-Held Mobile Telephone
Policy History:
Adopted on:
Revised on:
Reviewed on: