Students are reminded that all school rules and expectations of behavior apply on buses in transit to and from school, extracurricular activities, field trips, and other school-sponsored events. Upon arrival on school property, a student is considered present and should enter the building. Students who then leave school without permission will be considered truant and/or cutting classes and appropriate consequences will be assigned.

Once the school buses have been released, students may not cross in front of any bus until all buses have left school property. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action.

The bus driver has full authority and responsibility to enforce order and maintain discipline on the bus. In the event of a discipline problem with a student, the driver will deliver the student to their destination and then notify the principal or designee via a Bus Conduct Report.  In the event of a discipline problem that impedes the safety of the bus driver continuing on their route, the driver may summon help from either their employer, the Transportation Coordinator, or in the most severe instances, the local police.

The following violations may result in a suspension of riding privileges for a period to be determined by the Principal or designee:

1. Fighting on the bus
2. Lighting matches or cigarette lighters
3. Tampering with bus equipment/safety equipment
4. Improper use of emergency exits
5. Throwing objects at, out of, or within the bus
6. Profanity or other disrespectful language or gestures
7. Spitting
8. Smoking (tobacco, electronic and/or vapor)
9. Harassment of other students or the bus driver.
10. Intentional damage to the bus or bus equipment; student will be held responsible for any defacing or damaging of the bus
11. Refusing to remain seated while the bus is in motion
12. Refusing to obey or comply with a driver’s request or directions

The following violations shall result in an indefinite suspension of riding privileges. The Principal or designee will determine the length of suspension:

1. Possession, sale, or use of drugs
2. Possession, sale, or use of alcoholic beverages
3. Possession, sale, or use of a dangerous weapon
4. Repeated violations of bus rules and regulations

Disciplinary action for violations other than those listed above shall be at the discretion of the Principal or designee. Falmouth school buses may be equipped with video cameras mounted above the driver. Further information on this policy is available from the Transportation Department at the Administration Building or by calling (508) 548-0151.