I’ve given presentations at a number of conferences this summer, in all parts of the country. Concern about transportation professionals’ relationship with immediate supervisors, superintendents, and boards of education is a common theme of questions and comments I’ve heard. It seems you’re being asked to make exceptions to policy, move bus stops to appease an individual powerful – or persistent – parent, and, generally, to operate in an atmosphere in which you feel a lack of support. School transportation professionals need to “do” rather than be “done to.” I strongly recommend you take initiative to do the following:
- Determine specific safety risks inherent in exceptions you’re asked to make
- Identify real costs when changes are made
- Anticipate unintended consequences of budget cuts
- Be constant learners about school transportation options, alternatives, equipments, and methods
- Educate your supervisors about what you learn
- Demonstrate the impact of decisions that you make, and that others make
You may have far more power if you’re a bit less passive. Let’s see what happens.
Peggy Burns is an attorney/consultant with Education Compliance Group, Inc. Peggy can be reached at (888) 604-6141, and by email to ecginc@qwestoffice.net.
