Head Start deadline draws near

The final deadline for Head Start transportation regulations is Jan. 18, 2006.

After that date, all Head Start students must be transported in school buses or multi-function school activity buses.

Additionally, Jan. 18 marks the end of extensions granted to Head Start programs in fulfilling the 2004 requirements to place child safety restraint systems and monitors on all Head Start vehicles.

The regulations stem from 45 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) 1310, which provides guidelines for Head Start transportation.

The National School Transportation Association (NSTA) reminded its members of the approaching deadline and of the potential business it could present for school bus contractors.

“There may be programs in your area that are still using vans or other nonconforming vehicles to transport Head Start students,” the NSTA wrote to its members. “This may be an opportunity for you to expand your service and, at the same time, keep a Head Start grantee out of trouble and in compliance.”

Source: NSTA Newsletter, 11/14/05