Bus Attendant

Role overview

This is a classified, non-contracted position in the Transportation Department. The role is titled Bus Monitor / Attendant, is non-exempt, and reports to the Assistant Director of Transportation. The assignment covers 180 working days, which equals 10 months.

Candidates interested in this role must complete 720 hours serving as a Bus Monitor with Global Services.

Qualifications

A high school diploma or GED is required. Applicants must hold a valid state-issued driver's license, and employment depends on successful completion of the Bus Monitor / Attendant training program.

The position requires training in safe bus operations and student management procedures, along with knowledge of Board of Education policies related to student behavior on school buses. Strong reading and writing ability, clear oral communication, and the ability to follow written and spoken instructions are essential. The job also calls for effective group management, the ability to work well with children and others, and an understanding of child abuse indicators and reporting requirements.

Communication is a key part of the job and includes speaking, writing, gestures, body language, and facial expressions when interacting with students, bus drivers, parents, and school or transportation staff. Prior related experience is preferred.

Primary purpose

The bus attendant helps ensure students follow the rules and policies set by the Board. If student or driver safety is ever at risk, the attendant must report the issue immediately to the Transportation Department Radio Dispatcher.

Core duties

• Arrive on time; the bus driver cannot wait for the monitor.
• Remain on the bus from the first student pickup in the morning and afternoon until the final student drop-off.
• Make sure all students are seated, and buckled when assigned to a special needs bus.
• Keep order on the bus throughout the route.
• Stay positioned at the rear of the bus to maintain clear supervision of students.
• Learn routes well enough to assist a substitute driver.
• Check every seat after each trip for damage or items left behind by students.
• Know the location of emergency equipment, cards, numbers, pull-over points, and evacuation procedures.
• Stay alert to student needs and step in or interact when needed.
• Understand the emergency evacuation plan and be ready to evacuate the bus in an emergency.
• Know the bus route thoroughly.
• Receive training on wheelchair lifts and tie-down systems for students using wheelchairs or other mobility devices.
• Protect student confidentiality and avoid discussing bus-related information with coworkers who do not need to know.
• Maintain a respectful working relationship with the bus driver and with students.
• Perform any other duties assigned by supervisors, school staff, laws, board policy, administrative rules, and the department handbook when reasonably necessary and allowed under Title II, Part A guidelines.

Work environment and physical demands

The work setting is generally moderate in noise level. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for individuals with disabilities so they can perform the essential functions of the job.

The role may require occasionally lifting or moving up to 25 pounds. The employee will regularly need to speak and hear, and will frequently be required to walk, stand, and sit.

Special requirements

The employee must be able to get on and off a school bus quickly and often, and must be able to move through the aisle of a moving bus as needed to complete the required duties.

Additional information

Date established: 01/2009. Date revised: 06/2023. The description may be updated at any time. It is not intended to list every duty, and the employee may be assigned other related tasks as needed. Richmond County Schools may revise or change the job description and duties at any time.