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Frequently Asked Questions

Q & A

Do districts get reimbursed fully for the cost of busing students?

No, it is not even close. In the case of AISD, we get reimbursed $1.25 per mile based on the states allotment formula, and this allotment formula hasn't changed in over 20 years. The actual cost today of purchasing buses, bus maintenance, transportation salaries, equipment, and fuel comes to approximately $5.31 per mile.

Do school districts have to provide bus transportation for students?

No, bus transportation is a privilege not a right, except in the case of special education students. Busing students began at a time when communities were more rural and students had great distances to travel to school.

How are Bus Stops Determined?

Bus routes are created to enhance student safety while maximizing vehicle efficiency. Stops are created that allow students to wait off the main roadway for the bus if at all possible. Stops are also created to minimize students walking in highly traveled roadways for long distances without sidewalks. Stops are not placed in dead-end streets to minimize bus accidents while backing up (Backing is a very dangerous maneuver for a School bus). Stops are spread as far apart as criteria will allow in order to decrease the number of stops each bus will make on its route thus minimizing riding time for the students.

Elementary students may be required to walk up to ¼ of a mile to a bus stop.

Secondary students may be required to walk up to ½ of a mile. Bus routes are designed to limit student ride time to no more than 45 minutes one-way if at all possible, however, most students ride under 30 minutes one-way.

Why are only students who live more than two miles from school eligible for bus transportation?

Most districts utilize the two-mile rule. AISD has also adopted this guideline.