Head Start programs are not required to provide transportation services. However, when they do provide those services, they must comply with key regulations.Explore these resources to support programs in the safe and efficient movement of children from one point to another. Find materials on transportation services, coordination options, vehicles, child safety restraints, and other requirements. Learn how to develop transportation systems that are consistent with service area needs and comply with state and federal regulations.
Head Start programs that provide transportation services should consider communication skills training to increase the efficiency of their transportation staff. Program directors and transportation supervisors may use this resource to identify training issues that impact the quality of transportation services.
This checklist can be used by local programs that provide transportation services as a tool for ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations..
Programs must comply with transportation regulations if they decide to transport children. This resource may be used by Head Start staff to better understand federal requirements for program transportation services.
Understanding the quality and availability of transportation services to Head Start families is an integral part of the community assessment. Program directors and transportation coordinators can use this tip sheet as a starting point in conducting a community assessment of transportation. Local needs and conditions should be considered when a program establishes its own transportation services.
When considering new vehicle purchases, program directors should understand the four basic types of buses available. Manufacturers can configure each of the four types as either a traditional school bus or as an allowable alternate vehicle (AAV). This tip sheet provides a brief description of each type.
Outsourcing is a successful strategy for solving a variety of transportation problems. This article offers ideas that program managers and transportation coordinators can use to evaluate their cost of transportation. For example, the article suggests that partnering with a private school bus company whose expertise is pupil transportation allows the program staff to concentrate on their primary function of educating children.
Review the questions and answers (Q&A) below to find information related to transportation services in Head Start and Early Head Start.
Given the number of emergency scenarios that a Head Start program might encounter, it is critical for programs to put procedures in place for dealing with these special circumstances. Program directors and transportation managers may use this resource when establishing policies and procedures for ensuring adequate preparation of emergency evacuations and other transportation safety practices.