THE PLAINS, Va. — The National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services (NASDPTS) has released two reports addressing security in school bus operations.

The first, “Pupil Transportation System Security: Different Times — Added Responsibilities,” provides guidance on understanding and dealing with the effects of terrorism and other violent acts.

The second report, “Pupil Transportation System Security: Resources and Approaches,” recommends specific actions at the system, supervisor and driver levels, including policies and procedures, training and responsibilities.

Recommendations include auditing the present level of security at school bus operations and training drivers on topics specific to security, such as how to identify suspicious people, packages and devices and how to respond to a hostage situation.

“Improving our security awareness, policies and procedures will improve employees’ security at the most basic levels and will inspire confidence in our ability to handle emergency situations,” the reports state. The documents are available on NASDPTS’ Website at www.nasdpts.org in the “Security” section.