The BPS considers the school bus to be “an extension of the classroom.” That means we have the same standards of behavior on the school bus, on the MBTA, at school bus stops and at MBTA bus stops as we do in school. These standards also apply any time our students ride yellow buses or the MBTA—including outside regular school hours and on weekends. For example, students should remain in their seats; and they should not hang out of windows, push or fight with other students, throw things, or try to distract the driver. Students should respect all other riders on the yellow bus and on the MBTA.
Student behavior issues reported to the BPS Department of Transportation will be referred to the student's school for investigation and follow up. A student's school will investigate and address any reports of potential student behavior issues on the bus. Students who violate School-Based Rules or the Code of Conduct while on the school bus or on the MBTA may be disciplined, referred to the Bus Safety Program at BPS Succeed Boston, and/or denied transportation, including deactivation of their MBTA pass. The student will be suspended only from the bus route on which the incident occurred. Denial of transportation for fewer than four days does not require a hearing. The school must notify the family before denying transportation. The student should still attend school.