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Bus Registration, Routes, and Rules

Close up of the top front of a school bus

Riding with Confidence

FSPS Bus Services Explained

A student's day begins the moment they step onto the school bus. At Fort Smith Public Schools (FSPS), we are committed to providing secure, punctual, and efficient transportation services.

Our fleet of buses is maintained to the highest standards of safety, ensuring that each journey is secure and comfortable. Each bus is equipped with modern safety features and driven by trained professionals who prioritize student well-being.

Whether your student is traveling to their first day of kindergarten or preparing for high school graduation, trust FSPS to provide reliable transportation solutions that support their educational journey every step of the way.

kids on a school bus

Bus Eligibility Requirements

Who Can Ride?

Bus service eligibility is determined by the student's school of attendance and home location in relation to the school. Detailed eligibility guidelines are as follows:

  • Students living in their school's attendance zone and beyond a 2-mile radius from their assigned school are eligible for bus service.

  • Special provisions may apply for students with disabilities or those with special needs.

Register for Bus Service

Secure Your Seat

New and returning bus students must be registered for bus transportation. To register your child for our bus service, simply follow these steps:

  1. Complete the Registration Form: Fill out the form online via the Parent Portal. If you are unable to register online, you may download and fill out a paper registration form here or pick it up from your child's school. Turn the form in to the bus driver on the first day the student rides the bus.
  2. Review and Acknowledge the Bus Rules: Go over the bus conduct guidelines with your child to guarantee their understanding and compliance. These rules are vital for maintaining a safe environment for all passengers.
  3. Check the Parent Portal for Bus Assignments: Once you have registered through the Parent Portal your student's bus assignment should be make within approximately two days. Be sure to log back into the Parent Portal to see bus assignments for your student. 

 

Mom and her son at the bus stop

Role of Parents

Supporting Safe Bus Behavior

Parents and guardians play a pivotal role in the smooth operation of our transportation system and the successful implementation of our bus conduct policy. You can assist by:

  • Ensuring your child arrives at the bus stop ten minutes prior to the scheduled pick-up time.

  • Supervising younger children to and from the bus stop, if necessary.

  • Review the code of conduct with your child to ensure they understand the expectations.

  • Encourage your child to report any incidents or concerns to the bus driver or school administration.

  • Keeping your contact information current with the school to receive timely updates.

Understanding Our Bus Routes

Our bus routes are planned to ensure efficient and timely transportation for every student. 

Regular Routes

  • Elementary School Routes: Ballman, Barling, Bonneville, Carnall, Euper Lane, Fairview, Orr, Woods and Howard

  • Middle School Routes: Chaffin, Darby, Kimmons, Ramsey

  • High School Routes: Northside, Southside, Belle Point

Elementary schools not listed above do not have bus transportation. Each school has a Parent Transportation/Walk Zone extending for a 2-mile radius. Typically, bus service is not provided within this zone, although exceptions may occur, especially where I-540 intersects a school's attendance area. Transportation is available for students living beyond this 2-mile radius.

FAQs

School bus covered in snow

Inclement Weather and School Transportation

Safety First, No Matter the Weather

The safety of our students and staff is our utmost priority. In the event of severe weather conditions, we have clear procedures in place:

  • School Closures and Delays: Decisions are made with student safety in mind, based on the latest weather reports and road safety assessments.

  • Communication: Alerts about weather-related transportation changes are promptly communicated to parents via the district website, social media, email, and news outlets. 

 

Kids waving from school bus

School Bus Rules

Riding with Respect and Responsibility

Our bus services are an extension of our school environment, and as such, we expect all student riders to adhere to the same standards of conduct as they would in the classroom.

Our Expectations

Student Code of Conduct

We are committed to ensuring a safe and respectful experience for all our bus riders. To achieve this, students are expected to conduct themselves appropriately while riding the school bus. The following code of conduct outlines the responsibilities and expectations for student behavior:

Respect for the Driver and Fellow Passengers

  • Follow the bus driver's instructions at all times.

  • Maintain politeness and courtesy towards everyone on the bus.

  • Do not argue with the bus driver or be disrespectful in any way. 

Safety Measures

  • Remain seated, facing forward, while the bus is in motion.

  • Keep the aisles clear of personal belongings.

  • Board and ride the bus in an orderly manner: no shoving, shouting, pushing, fighting, spitting, littering, throwing objects, using obscene language or inappropriate gestures, and keeping arms, hands, and head inside the bus.

  • Only use emergency exits when directed by the driver or in an actual emergency.

  • Stand back at least 10 feet from the curb/stop and wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before approaching it.

  • Do not chase a bus if you miss a pick-up.

  • After exiting the bus, remain visible to the driver when crossing the street and wait for the driver's signal before crossing.

Boarding and Departing Procedures

  • Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before approaching it.

  • Exit the bus in an orderly manner, without pushing or shoving.

Prohibited Items and Actions

  • Loud or disruptive behavior is not allowed; no shouting or playing of band instruments.

  • Throwing objects inside or outside of the bus is forbidden.

  • Food, candy, drinks, and tobacco products are not allowed on the bus or at the bus stop.

  • Do not litter, harass, trespass, vandalize, or damage any property, including the bus

Use of Electronic Devices

  • Use headphones when listening to music or playing games on devices.

  • Electronic devices should not interfere with the driver's operation or create a distraction. 

  • Cell phones must be on silent, and calls are not allowed. Texting is permitted if it is not disruptive.

Guest Riders

  • If requested by the driver or aide, students must provide their correct name or ID card.
  • Students must ride only their assigned bus.
  • Guest riders may be allowed with a parent's note, subject to the bus driver's approval. It is recommended to obtain the driver's permission in advance.

FSPS bus drivers have the same authority over bus passengers as teachers have over students in the classroom. Due to safety, students are expected to behave as well or better than they do in the classroom. The driver will review these rules with the passengers. Transportation privileges may be revoked or suspended if a student becomes uncooperative, unruly, distracting, or disrespectful towards any school employee or another student. While on the school bus, all school rules and policies apply.

Consequences for Violation

Violations of the code of conduct can result in consequences that ensure the safety and well-being of all riders. Passengers who interfere with the safe and orderly operation of the bus will have their transportation privileges suspended. Depending on the severity of the infraction, warnings may or may not be given.

We're Here to Help

For any inquiries about the registration process or bus services, our Transportation Department is ready to assist you.

Contact Us