Describes a computer program called "Dispatcher's Assistant" that helps train drivers of special education vehicles, can supply first aid and emergency advice, and tracks individual student records. (MD)

Looks at the problems of school bus transportation in New Jersey at State, county, and local levels. Cost and safety comparisons are made for contract busing and busing in school district owned buses. The job of a new county level transportation coordinator is also discussed. (Author/DN)

From automated fixed-rail systems to computer-controlled buses, industry is doing its share to provide alternatives to automobiles on campus (Editor/IR)

A college president, concerned with student attitudes and responses, put 100 bicycles at the disposal of students for on-campus transportation. (IR)

A representative of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration weighs advantages and discusses issues associated with installing seat belts in school buses. Federal regulations and research findings are considered. A list of guideline questions for school districts planning to install seat belts is included. (PP)

School boards can cut transportation costs by finding out whether busing required for desegregation can be reduced, whether the district is getting all possible state transportation aid, whether owning or contracting for vehicles is cheaper, whether bus routes are economical, and whether joint transportation programs with neighboring districts can…

The time students spend on the bus going to and coming from schools is wasted. The simulated classroom situation of the school bus could be used for educationally related purposes by having prerecorded material programed over a high quality sound system. (Author/MLF)

Suggests specific ways for school districts to control rapidly rising transportation costs and assure many years of quality service. (Author/MLF)

After a 20-year fight, advocates in New Jersey get a mandate for seat belts on school buses, and the controversial law could spark a new national trend. Half of the states have pending legislation on seat belts for school buses. Summarizes the arguments for and against seat belts. (MLF)

Hiring private contractors to manage school support services, such as food, maintenance, and busing, is a growing trend. Companies such as Marriott Corp., ServiceMaster, ARA Services, and Laidlaw Transit report that school business is steadily increasing. Unions staunchly oppose privatization. This article balances advantages and disadvantages,…

A comparison of two Tennessee school districts revealed that the district with in-house pupil transportation spent less than the district that contracted for the service. A sidebar discusses the characteristics of small vs. large contractors for school buses. (MLF)

Alternative fuels are becoming increasingly attractive from environmental, energy independence, and economic perspectives. Addresses the following topics: (1) federal and state legislation; (2) alternative fuels and their attributes; (3) practical experience with alternative-fuel vehicles in pupil transportation; and (4) options for school…

An Ohio school district is taking positive action to improve the public image of student transportation. The program attempts to fulfill parents' special needs. Presentations are made to a variety of community groups regarding the transportation operations, inhouse communications are encouraged, and feedback is welcomed. (MLF)

In "Kadrmas v. Dickinson," suit was brought challenging the constitutionality of a North Dakota statute allowing certain public school districts to charge user fees for transporting students. In 1988, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Constitution does not require states to offer such services. The decision seriously erodes equal…

Discusses management issues surrounding school busing operations within the context of tightening budgets while simultaneously serving the growing number of students with special needs. The debate on bus use for advertising is highlighted. (GR)