Upcoming NHTSA Training Programs

Illegal Passing of School Buses — NHTSA sponsored four demonstration projects addressing illegal passing, which are completed. Based on the results, the agency is producing a Best Practices Guide on Reducing Illegal Passing of School Buses. Guide is currently at the printer; anticipated availability in early to mid 2002. Safety Seat Training for School Bus Personnel — An eight-hour course based on the 32-hour child passenger safety training, developed specifically to address the installation of safety seats in school buses. Can only be taught by certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians. The curriculum has been pilot tested, revised and tested again. The controversy over the safety vest has put the curriculum on hold, however, until a decision can be made on how to handle the apparent conflicts. Undergoing agency review; anticipated availability spring or beyond. Choosing the Correct School Bus for Transporting Pre-Schoolers — This brochure gives guidance on the features and equipment to look for in spec’ing a school bus for transporting pre-schoolers. Available now on NHTSA’s Website at www.nhtsa.gov. Training modules — Two additional modules for the School Bus Driver Training Series have been completed, one on winter driving techniques and the other on transporting students with special needs. They were expected to be distributed last month, but technical difficulties in transferring the entire series to CD have delayed the distribution. Working out technical glitches; anticipated availability early to mid 2002.