EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK

SECTION 7

FIELD TRIPS (This section is in compliance with the current collective bargaining agreement.)

I. GENERAL FIELD TRIP INFORMATION Prior to departure on a school activity trip, all pupils shall receive safety instruction which includes, but is not limited to, operation of emergency release of front door, location of emergency exits, location of ignition key, location of parking brake, and location and use of emergency equipment. Instruction also may include responsibilities of passengers seated next to an emergency exit. Be mindful that the bus and the driver must remain available at all times to respond to the needs of the group . If at all possible, exchange cell phone numbers with the chaperone. A. EXTRA HOURS Extra hour assignments shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the agreement between the bargaining unit and the Agency. B. ACTIVITY TRIP DIFFERENCES Qualified driver may be assigned to drive a field trip with various groups. These may occur between regular home-to-school routes, late afternoon, evenings, or on weekends. Driving field trips can present problems that are different from regular home-to-school routes. 1. Being assigned to drive a bus other than the one usually driven. 2. Transporting different age groups other than those normally transported. 3. Driving long periods at one time. 4. Driving roadways and freeways and driving in and out of cities that are not familiar. 5. Driving at night. 6. Driving in inclement weather and road conditions. 7. Transporting extra equipment. 8. Working with chaperones and/or teachers. 9. Adjusting to the activities and the spirit of the trip. 10. Handling of emergencies that may occur away from home. 11. Fueling off site. 12. Mechanical breakdowns. C. COMMON CAUSES OF AN ACCIDENT Federal school bus accident reports indicate that many accidents occur on field trips and the leading cause are as follows: Some of these items to be considered are as follows:

1. Drivers unfamiliar with the bus. 2. Drivers unfamiliar with the route being traveled. 3. Misuse of braking system descending grades. 4. Driver fatigue.

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Revised 8/9/2023