The safety and welfare of student riders shall be the first consideration in all matters pertaining to transportation. Emergency evacuation drills shall be conducted regularly throughout the school term to thoroughly acquaint student riders with procedures in emergency situations.
All vehicles used to transport children shall be maintained in such condition so as to provide safe and efficient transportation service with a minimum of delays and disruption of such service due to mechanical or equipment failure. Buses shall be replaced at such intervals so as to provide good equipment at all times.
Video Cameras on Transportation Vehicles
The Board as a part of the District's ongoing program to improve discipline and ensure the health, welfare, and safety of all students and persons riding on school transportation vehicles with students, may utilize video cameras on some or all school vehicles transporting students to and from curricular and extracurricular activities.
Video surveillance shall be used to promote the order, safety, and security of students, staff, and property. The video camera does not replace the authority and responsibility of the bus driver or school district administrative staff; however, a tape review may be used as a basis for follow up activities, such as retraining or discipline.
Video cameras will be used to monitor student behavior and may be used as evidence in student disciplinary proceedings. Such monitoring is to supplement and not replace written reports prepared by bus drivers and school administrators. Any images of students recorded on videotape are subject to the confidentiality accorded student records under applicable laws, board policy, and administrative regulations.
Video tapes may be reused and the video recording created under this policy may be recorded over at the discretion of the Director of Transportation.
The superintendent will develop procedures governing the use of video cameras in accordance with provisions of the law and this policy.