Bus driver says lack of student behavior information and phone use hamper safety; asks district for clearer rules

A district bus driver addressed the board during open forum on May 5, describing a March 15 incident in which he said he disarmed a third‑grade student who was carrying a lacrosse ball, and asking for clearer communication and rules to improve safety on buses.

John Scribe identified himself as a bus driver employed by Student Transportation. He said the student’s mother reported him to police and that, as a result, he has been off driving for six weeks while the county attorney has not opened a file. Scribe said drivers are not routinely told about students’ medical or disciplinary issues at the start of the year, and he called that “a big problem, especially at the beginning of the year.” He said he has been hit twice this year by objects on his bus and described the safety risk if a driver is struck while operating the vehicle.

Scribe also urged the district to include buses in any cell‑phone usage rules, arguing that recordings and students taking pictures “cause disturbances” on buses. He said his supervisor proposed putting an extra camera on his bus and asked for that equipment to be installed. He said he wanted more information about students who present ongoing conduct issues so drivers can respond safely.

The board did not take action during the meeting on the request; Scribe’s remarks were received during the public comment period. There was no board discussion recorded in the transcript following the comment.

Ending

The driver’s comments were entered into the public record; district staff did not state immediate follow‑up actions during the meeting.