It is essential for drivers of students with disabilities to be familiar with the characteristics of those students. The decision that a student has a disability is made by a multidisciplinary team, the Child Study Team (CST). Transportation options must only be considered when special provisions are required. The majority of students with disabilities do not require any special transportation provisions. The student’s IEP will determine the exact needs of any child.
It is important to remember that all children are individuals first and those descriptions of specific categories of disability do not apply to the same extent to all the children within a disability category.
Annually Bus Drivers and Aides are required to view a video on the NJDOE website that deals with students with special needs. Drivers and aides must certify that they viewed the video and the District must provide certifications to the NJDOE that documents this. The video can be found at:
School Bus Driver and Aide Training for Interacting with Students with Special Needs
WEBSITE: School Bus Driver and Aide Training for Interacting with Students with Special Needs
In addition, the MHRD Special Education Department provides training to drivers annually.