Bus Rules & Safety

Parent & Guardian Expectations

Before Heading to the Bus Stop

• Check the Bus Status 4 app or blackgold.ca for delays or cancellations
• Have a backup plan in place in case of delays or cancellations
• Dress your child appropriately for the weather
• Supervise your child to and from the bus stop
• Ensure your child arrives at the bus stop at least 5 minutes early with their bus pass ready

Throughout the School Year

• Support the bus driver by reviewing Student Expectations with your child
• Ensure your child understands their transportation plan and knows which bus they should be riding

When Transportation Changes

• Notify the driver, contractor, or Transportation whenever possible if your child will be absent, away on vacation, or not riding the bus as usual
• If you move, please submit a Transportation Change Request as soon as possible. Changes to your address may affect eligibility, bus stop locations, and transportation availability
• If your child no longer requires transportation, please submit a Transportation Cancellation Request

Student Expectations

Bus Stop Safety

Morning Pick-up:

• Be prepared to walk up to 400 metres to the bus stop
• Arrive at the stop at least five minutes before the bus; buses cannot wait
• Keep off the roadway while waiting
• Stay out of the bus "Danger Zone"

Afternoon Drop-off:

• If you miss the bus after school, go to the office and call home
• Never walk home without parent permission

Boarding & Riding

• Scan your bus pass when boarding and exiting
• Only ride your assigned bus; friends or visitors are not allowed
• Remain seated while the bus is moving
• Keep aisles and exits clear

Respect & Conduct

• Talk quietly to the person beside you
• No disrespectful, vulgar, or harassing behavior
• Cooperate with the driver to keep the bus neat and clean
• No recording video, audio, or photos

Safety & Belongings

• Do not throw items or put body parts outside the windows
• Take care of your assigned seat; any damage is your responsibility
• Dress for the weather (especially winter)
• No drugs, alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes, or weapons
• No items larger than 13"x13"x23"
• No eating or drinking (including water)
• Electronic devices are allowed with headphones only

If Student Expectations Are Not Followed:

The bus driver will submit a misconduct report for misbehaviour, damage, or safety concerns. The misconduct report will be shared with school administration.

Depending on the nature, severity or frequency of the concern, school administration may assign consequences, including a temporary suspension from bus service.

Bus Rules FAQs

Why Are Large Items Restricted?

• All items must fit within 13"x13"x23" (33cm x 33cm x 59cm)
• Items must not block aisles, exits, or other students’ spaces
• Loose items are unsafe — even under a seat

Prohibited Items include, but are not limited to:

• Large musical instruments
• Sports bags and sticks (hockey, ringette, lacrosse)
• Skis, poles, snowboards, curling brooms
• Skateboards, sleighs, or large science projects
• Baseball bats, unsecured balls (basketballs, soccer balls)

Legal requirements

Under the Commercial Vehicle Safety Regulation (AR 121/2009) and the School Bus Operation Regulation (AR 437/86), school bus drivers must enforce safety rules and may not transport items that could endanger passengers.

Why Can't Students Eat or Drink on the Bus?

To reduce the risk of choking and to keep buses safe and clean, students may not consume food or drinks of any kind while riding the bus.

Why is this rule important?

• Choking risk: A choking child may make no noise, and the driver may not notice until it’s too late
• Cleanliness and safety: Spills can create slippery floors and increase the risk of slips and falls. In a sudden stop or collision, drink containers, hard lids, and straws can become hazards and may cause injury
• Safety certification: This rule is supported by First Aid training and Alberta’s S-Endorsement program (school bus safety certification)

💧 Why is water included?

• To maintain a clear and consistent safety rule for all students, no food or drinks may be consumed on the bus, including water
• Students are encouraged to drink water before and after their bus ride
  

Why Aren't Guest Riders Permitted?

Students may only ride the bus to which they have been assigned.

Examples include:

• Riding home with a friend
• Visiting a relative
• Attending a playdate
• Travelling to an after-school activity

This rule is in place for student safety; unregistered riders:

• Are not included in seating plans or attendance records
• Do not have emergency information on file
• Create supervision and evacuation concerns

📌 Please note:

Parents/guardians are responsible for arranging alternate transportation when needed.

Danger Zone Awareness

Teach your child to avoid the “Danger Zone” — areas around the bus where the driver can’t see them:

• Never walk or cross behind the bus
• Don’t reach under the bus — tell the driver if something is dropped
• Wait for the driver’s signal before crossing the street

🎥 Click the image below to watch a short video about the school bus danger zone.

When School Bus Lights Flash

🟡 Slow Down for Flashing Amber Lights

• Amber (Yellow) lights mean the bus is preparing to stop. Slow down and be prepared to stop.

🛑 Stop for Flashing Red Lights

• When red lights flash — STOP!
• Drivers approaching the bus from either direction must stop.
• Stay at least 20 m (4–5 car lengths) back
• Do not move until the lights stop and the stop arm retracts

Only Exception

• You may continue only if there is a physical barrier or median separating traffic travelling in opposite directions (for example, a raised boulevard, grass median, or concrete barrier)

🚸 Drive Like Lives Depend On It

• Be patient — seconds matter
• Watch for children
• Never pass a stopped bus with red lights flashing

⚖️ Penalties (Alberta)

• $567 fine + 6 demerit points
• Black Gold school buses are equipped with cameras that record stop-arm violations
• Recorded violations may be reported to the RCMP, and video evidence may be provided to support enforcement

Think You Know the Rules Around School Buses?

🎥 Watch this quick video to test your knowledge and learn more about school bus safety, flashing lights, stop-arm violations, and Alberta's school bus laws.

Surveillance & GPS Tracking

• All buses are equipped with interior and exterior audio/video cameras for student safety
• GPS systems monitor location, speed, and driver activity
• GPS allows for real-time response in emergencies, breakdowns, or lockdowns
• Student information and transportation records are maintained in accordance with Alberta privacy legislation and Black Gold School Division policies
• Audio/video recordings and student transportation information are securely managed and accessed only by authorized personnel

Have questions?

Start with our FAQs, it's the quickest way to find answers. If you cannot find the information you need, please email transportation@blackgold.ca.

Have an urgent concern?

Visit our Contact Us page for additional ways to reach Transportation.

Black Gold School Division
1101 5 Street, 3rd Floor
Nisku, AB

🕒 Regular Hours: 8:30 AM–12:00 PM and 1:00 PM–4:30 PM, Monday to Friday

🕒 Summer Hours (July 6–August 14): 8:00 AM–12:00 PM and 12:45 PM–4:30 PM. Please note: The Division Office is closed on Fridays from July 6 to August 14.