Does your family have a Plan B? Tips for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools bus riders

Wednesday, February 20, 2008 by Planet Janet.

It’s inevitable.  Traffic backs up.  Cars break down.  You may get distracted and lose track of time.  The bus may, miraculously, be early.  Whatever the reason, you’re not there when your child gets off the bus.

According to Ms. Massey of Central Transportation, it is CMS policy that bus drivers will drop off your child at their bus stop (Kindergarten and older), even if no adult is present.

For their safety and welfare, initiate a discussion with your child about your family’s Plan B.   The following are some tips to get you started:

•    All bus riders should know contact numbers or have them written down inside their backpacks.
•    Encourage your child to find a “bus buddy.”   For parents of younger bus riders, be proactive and find a trustworthy older student who is willing to be your child’s “bus buddy.”
•    Siblings must always check in with each other and ensure everyone is in the same place.
•    Give your child a key or hide a key outside your home so they can let themselves in.
•    Get to know your neighbors and ask them to be available as your backup.  Establishing ties close to home, in so many     ways, can make a world of difference.
•    If they don’t have a key, instruct your child to stay in the back yard.
•    Tell your child to remain at the bus stop until you arrive and to not talk to strangers.

For those utilizing consolidated bus stops, the solution is simple:
•    Get to know each other
•    Exchange cell phone numbers.
•    Carpool to and from the bus stop.
•    Ensure all children are supervised when they get off the bus.

Whatever your plan, just MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ONE.  For more information about CMS bus riding, contact Central Transportation at 980.343.6970.

Posted in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, CHARLOTTE, N.C., Around town - CHARLOTTE, N.C., Parenting - CHARLOTTE, N.C. | Print | No Comments »