Because of the nature of special needs transportation, open communications and a cooperative approach between parents, students, teachers, drivers, special education supervisors and transportation supervisory personnel needs to take place to ensure that safe, reliable and efficient services are provided. 

Not all students with special needs require or are entitled to "special" transportation.  To determine a student’s individual need(s), each Individualized Education Plan (IEP) team asks:

• Does the child’s condition preclude the student from walking to school?

• Does the child’s condition preclude the student from using regular transportation?

• Does the child’s condition preclude the student from using regular transportation with supplemental aids and services?

• If the condition precludes the above, what special transportation services are required?

Transportation Planning

Transportation Plan.  As part of the Individualized Education Plan (IEP), a Transportation Plan will be developed for each special needs child.  The Transportation Department will use the information provided in the IEP to determine personnel, vehicle, routing and scheduling assignments.  All information will be handled confidentially in accordance with the Family Educational Rights to Privacy Act (FERPA).

Routing and Scheduling. Transportation scheduling for special needs is done on an individualized basis.  Without an IEP and a Special Education staff authorization, transportation services cannot be started.  It may take up to three (3) days to begin or change transportation services.  Routing and scheduling a student with special needs is complex and flexibility is essential.  Daily changes in special needs transportation are the norm. The most efficient and economical route, which effectively meets the needs of the student with the assets available to the District, will be selected.  The Transportation Department will contact parents on route assignments, pick-up and delivery times and location for pick-up and delivery.  Additional student assignments may change routing and scheduling times for special needs routes.  When this occurs, parents will be notified of the change prior to implementation.

Special Needs Policies and Procedures