What you need to know if your kids are riding the school bus this year in SWFL

In one week, many of your children will board the big yellow bus once again, but this year will look much different.

At the bus stop, if your student has to wait with others, school districts recommend that everyone wears a mask and stay six feet apart. Once they hop on board, chances are social distancing might not be possible.

That’s why Lee, Collier, and Charlotte counties all require students to wear masks on the bus at all times.

“We had a small summer school which allowed us to see how kids would react, and they rose way above our expectation and kids were great,” said Tim Kutz, executive director for district operations in Collier County. “They were very responsive with the masks.”

Districts say if a driver or child tests positive for COVID-19, they’ll pull the bus from the route and sanitize it. Schools will contact parents.

“Really we’re hoping parents do the right job and monitor their kids. If the kids have a temperature and don’t feel well they should be kept home and not put on a bus,” said Roger Lloyd, director of transportation for the School District of Lee County.

Districts say thankfully with the combination of face-to-face and expended virtual learning, they expect fewer kids to ride the bus this year, leaving more space for everyone. Districts also say their plans are constantly evolving and being improved.

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