10/21/03

     The safety of students who are transported to and from school and to extra-curricular events is of utmost importance to all of us in DoDDS Pacific. This year alone we have registered over 8,000 riders. Our buses travel over 6,700 miles per day on 268 routes and make 546 runs!

     I believe that DoDDS Pacific is in the forefront of incorporating emerging technologies into its business practices to improve and enhance security, safety, and customer service for our riders. The Pacific Transportation Management Division in my office has instituted a three-pronged initiative that addresses school bus security and student safety.

     1) Our Security Attendant Program was developed to place a second adult on our buses. Security Attendants are required to complete a formal 40-hour certification training program, and they perform security and safety functions on most bus routes in the Pacific.

     2) The installation of Global Positioning System (GPS) and cellular communications technology on the buses provides the capability for tracking the bus location and status using computer monitors located in local DoDDS Pacific transportation offices.

     3) The On-board Vehicle Surveillance System (OBVSS), a digital bus video camera system with audio capability designed to record real time images and sound, is expected to be installed in early 2004. Each bus will be equipped with four cameras with two channel synchronized audio for monitoring passenger behavior on the bus, and monitoring the loading and unloading of passengers.

     National School Bus Safety Week is observed October 19-25, 2003. This is an opportune time for all educators and parents to teach and remind students about appropriate safety practices and behavior when walking to the bus stop, waiting for, and riding the bus. In conjunction with National School Bus Safety Week, the National Association for Pupil Transportation sponsors a poster contest focused on school bus safety. Last year, a DoDDS Pacific student from Sollars Elementary School won first place in the international division. As we observe School Bus Safety Week, I encourage all of you to take the time to talk to our children about this important issue.

Nancy C. Bresell
Director, DoDDS Pacific