Beverly School Committee approves four bus safety policies unanimously

During a recent meeting of the Beverly Public Schools School Committee, members approved several key policies related to student transportation and safety, reflecting the district's commitment to ensuring a secure environment for its students.

The committee unanimously passed the school bus safety program policy, which emphasizes the importance of transporting students safely. A notable discussion arose regarding the terminology used in the policy, with members debating whether to refer to those using the bus as "students" or "children." Ultimately, the committee decided to retain the term "children," acknowledging that the buses also serve students from outside the Beverly Public Schools system.

Another significant policy approved was related to bus driver examination and training. The committee opted to delegate the authority to approve driver qualifications to the transportation director, rather than retaining that responsibility at the committee level. This decision aims to streamline the process and ensure that qualified personnel manage transportation safety.

The committee also addressed drug and alcohol testing policies for school bus and commercial vehicle drivers, which were confirmed to align closely with existing regulations. This consistency is crucial for maintaining high safety standards within the district's transportation system.

One of the most critical discussions centered on the conduct of students on school buses. The committee highlighted the importance of ensuring that only registered students can ride the bus, a measure aimed at preventing unauthorized use of the service. This policy change is expected to enhance safety and accountability among students.

In addition to policy approvals, the committee reviewed the district's financial status, noting no significant concerns regarding revenues or expenses. This positive outlook suggests that the district is managing its resources effectively, which is essential for supporting ongoing educational initiatives.

As the meeting concluded, the committee expressed a commitment to maintaining open lines of communication with the community regarding transportation policies and safety measures. The decisions made during this meeting are expected to have a direct impact on the safety and well-being of students in the Beverly Public Schools system.