Students who have suffered a traumatic brain injury or near drowning will require close physical safeguards and assistance in a bus evacuation. The commotion could set off a seizure.

Students with osteogenesis imperfecta have bones that break easily. In spite of the urgency of a school bus evacuation, these passengers must be moved slowly and carefully.

This condition is a birth defect that involves incomplete development of the spinal cord, often resulting in paralysis of a student’s lower extremities. Many with spina bifida will be totally dependent on the bus staff, so a well thought out evacuation plan is critical. Part 4 of this series also covers spinal cord injuries.

Part 3 of this series focuses on spinal muscular atrophy, which is a group of inherited diseases that cause progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. Knowing how to carry passengers with this condition on an evacuation device and including a nurse in training drills will help to ensure their safety.

Part 2 of this series focuses on Duchenne muscular dystrophy, which causes deterioration of muscle tissue in boys. Knowing how to lift these passengers properly is critical for a safe emergency exit from the bus.

A physical therapist explains common disabilities and how they affect school bus emergency evacuations. This article, focusing on students with cerebral palsy, is the first in a series.

Physical and occupational therapists are a great asset to an operation. Help them to see the critical role they play in assisting with the transport of special-needs students by soliciting their expertise on body mechanics, disabilities and mobility devices. Ensure that they participate in evacuation training and drills.

From loading procedures to proper footwear to student discipline, pupil transportation professionals share their tips for reducing risks on and off the bus.

School bus operations strengthen drivers’ skills and expand their knowledge of timely industry topics with these meetings. Guest speakers can enhance the value of the meetings, while auxiliary training and incentive programs help to keep drivers engaged.

Transportation personnel at Greenville (S.C.) County Schools have developed an innovative special-needs ...