Bus Aide

Under the general supervision of the Director of Facilities and in collaboration with the School Bus Driver, the Bus Aide ensures the safe, secure, and orderly transportation of students to and from school and on field trips. The Bus Aide provides assistance to students during transportation, monitors student behavior, and supports the driver in maintaining a safe environment on the bus.

Essential Functions:

• Assists students in boarding and exiting the bus safely, including those with mobility challenges or special needs.
• Ensures students are seated and using seat belts or safety restraints as required.
• Maintains order and discipline among students on the bus in accordance with district policies and procedures; reports behavioral incidents to appropriate school personnel.
• Assists the driver with conducting bus evacuation drills and ensures students are prepared for emergency situations.
• Helps students remain calm and secure during transit, especially during stressful situations or delays.
• Communicates effectively with the bus driver, school staff, parents, and students, as needed.
• Checks the bus at the end of each route to ensure that no child is left behind.
• Monitors students for signs of illness or distress and reports any concerns promptly.
• Maintains a clean and organized bus environment by assisting in light cleaning duties and encouraging student responsibility.
• Participates in required training sessions, in-service education, and professional development activities.
• Ensures students' personal belongings (backpacks, medical devices, etc.) are handled appropriately and securely during transport.
• Assists the driver in managing and documenting incidents, accidents, and safety concerns.
• Observes all safety protocols and emergency procedures during regular transport and field trips.

Additional Duties:

• Performs other related tasks as assigned by supervisors or school administrators.

Equipment:

• Uses safety and restraint equipment such as seat belts, harnesses, and car seats.
• Uses communication devices such as two-way radios or cell phones as directed by the driver or transportation office.

Travel Requirements:

• Travels on school buses throughout assigned routes, to and from school buildings, field trip locations, and other destinations as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of student behavior and appropriate interventions for behavior management.
• Ability to assist students with physical or cognitive disabilities in a safe and respectful manner.
• Effective communication skills with students, staff, and parents.
• Ability to remain calm and patient in stressful or emergency situations.
• Ability to follow instructions and support the driver in maintaining a safe transport environment.
• Ability to observe and respond appropriately to student needs and potential hazards.
• Capable of performing physical tasks such as assisting with lifting or securing students.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards:

• Work is performed in a school bus environment, often under varying weather conditions.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and assisting students with mobility may be required.
• Must be able to assist in emergency evacuations, including lifting or carrying students when necessary.

Qualifications Profile:

Any combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying. Typical qualifications would be equivalent to:

• Certification/License: Motor Vehicle Operator's (DMV) License.
• Education: High School Diploma or GED.
• Bilingual, both oral and written, ability (English/Spanish) is preferred.
• Experience: Successful experience working with children, especially in a school or transportation setting, is preferred.
• FLSA Status: Nonexempt