LOUISVILLE, Ky. — As Jefferson County Public Schools prep for in-person classes, the JCPS Transportation Department has launched its Bus Finder to help families find their child's bus number and stop.
Elementary students start in-person learning Wednesday, March 17, while middle and high schoolers will head back to the classroom beginning April 5.
Families can enter their home address and school into the Bus Finder to find their bus number, nearest bus stop and pickup times. That information will also be sent in the mail in the next week.
JCPS bus drivers are simulating their routes this week, getting ready for the first day of in-person classes.
Ronald "RW" Fawbush will be driving kids to Watterson Elementary and Central High School during this not-so-typical school year.
"It’s going to be different, a little bit challenging, more paying attention to detail," Fawbush said.
After a year away, he’s looking forward to seeing the kids on his routes once again.
"I like driving, and I like interacting with the kids," Fawbush said.
JCPS has also announced its protocol for buses, which includes assigned seats for every student. Students and bus drivers will also be required to wear masks unless they have a medical waiver.
Hand sanitizer will also be available once kids enter the bus, and drivers will clean high-touch areas like window handles and backs on seats after each run.
Because all students are on a hybrid schedule, there will be fewer kids on a bus each day. Some routes have been consolidated, which could mean some changes from last year’s bus schedule.
"Your child may need to get to a bus stop a little early or a little late, but please assure we will be there to pick your student up," JCPS Transportation Operations Manager Tonya Clinkscales said.
Families are encouraged to let JCPS and their school know if they plan on doing in-person learning and need bus transportation. The portal to alert JCPS to your selection can be found here.
JCPS nutritional service officials are expect to explain changes to their curbside meal sites once in-person classes resume Tuesday. More information on schedules, transportation or health and safety plans can be found on the JCPS Back-to-School website.
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