Date

5-2024

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Human Development & Family Science

Abstract

This capstone project addressed the challenges faced by new and experienced bilingual school bus drivers who transport special education students. According to the California Department of Education, transportation must be provided at no cost to those special education students ages 3-21 who are eligible as part of related services. The training for school bus drivers typically covers safe driving, vehicle operation, and basic student management. However, they often receive minimal or no specialized training to work with students with special needs. California had an estimated 38,000 school bus drivers in 2020, making it one of the states with the highest number of school bus drivers (California Department of Education). Over a million students are transported in California every day, 200,000 of whom are special needs students (California Associations of School Transportation Officials). Inadequate knowledge and training among drivers in effectively handling and interacting with children with special needs pose a significant challenge in the transportation system. The lack of expertise makes navigating bus routes more difficult, because school bus drivers have difficulties interpreting and responding appropriately to the diverse behaviors exhibited by children with special needs. Therefore, a comprehensive workshop is needed to teach school bus drivers about essential special education skills and knowledge. This workshop addressed three areas: some of the most common types of student special needs and their characteristics, strategies that bus drivers can employ to effectively interact with special needs students, and stress management techniques for bus drivers. The one-hour workshop was conducted at the Aromas-San Juan Unified School District and engaged six school bus drivers.

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