8651 - NONROUTINE USE OF SCHOOL BUSES

The Board of Education will permit the school buses owned or leased by this District to be used for purposes other than regularly-scheduled routes to and from school in accordance with law and rules of the State, provided such trips do not interfere with routine school transportation services.

The nonroutine use of buses shall be defined for purposes of this policy as those uses which are specified in R.C. 3327.018 and A.C. 3301-83-16.

1. Use of Buses for School Activities
   
   Buses operated on nonroutine trips involving school activities will be operated by the holder of a valid Ohio school bus driver's license who has been approved by the Board. Drivers shall be selected for nonroutine trips by the Transportation Supervisor on the basis of their knowledge, skill, and experience in operating a bus in the area to be traveled as well as their familiarity with the vehicle selected for use. The Superintendent shall require that nonroutine use of school buses shall include provision for insurance coverage and the requirement that chaperones accompany each school bus trip involving school-age passengers whose responsibility it will be to assist the staff member(s) in maintaining passenger control and in enforcing procedures for the safety of all passengers.
2. Use of Buses by Authorized Entities During Emergencies
   
   The Board may enter into a written agreement with a local, State or Federal government entity or agency, or a public or private nonprofit entity to operate its buses for the purpose of assisting the entity in fulfillment of legitimate activities during times of emergency. The agreement shall not be considered commerce as defined under State and Federal law. All State Board of Education regulations governing the operation of school buses when transporting students shall apply during such use, including the requirement that drivers hold proper certification to drive a bus. The Board will procure liability and property damage insurance to cover all vehicles used and passengers transported under these agreements. The Board may seek reimbursement for the costs of nonroutine transportation, which will not exceed the cost of operation and insurance coverage.

Revised 05/01/08

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