A demonstration program conducted in 12 New Jersey school districts identified 18 fuel cost-saving opportunities for school bus operation that could save the state an estimated $1.6 million in fuel costs. (MLF)

The study found seriously inferior educational services for mentally handicapped students in special care schools administered by social services authorities in Northern Ireland when compared with special schools for similar children in England and special schools for other children with disabilities in Northern Ireland. (Author/DB)

Suggests activities for students that focus on airplanes, famous pilots, and travel. Provides a list of suggested titles with the following topics: history of flight and airplanes; airplanes and flying information; paper and model airplanes; Charles Lindbergh; Amelia Earhart; the Wright Brothers; videos; and picture books. (AEF)

Computerized bus-routing systems plot the most efficient routes, cut the time it takes to draw routes, and generate reports quickly and accurately. However, school districts often underestimate the amount of work necessary to get information into the computer database. (MLF)

Contends that the level of safety built into roads is largely unpremeditated and that roads and highways are not as safe as they might be. Discusses practices, standards, and deficiencies in highway and traffic safety related to geometric design and traffic engineering. Recommends increased transportation engineering professionalism and public…

The task of regulating the transportation of high-risk, medically fragile children to school falls largely to state and local school boards. Discusses the costs of transporting these children and coordinating with a child's individualized education program, and lists four resources schools can contact for information. (MLF)

Equipment to allow safe transportation of disabled children is reviewed. Such equipment includes infant car seats, child safety seats, safety vests, and accommodations for children in casts and/or braces. Five principles for evaluation and selection of safe seating options are given as are safety rules and information on standards and resources.…

An overview is given of four evaluation studies conducted to determine the need for and possible parameters of a "postinterstate" highway policy. How these studies sought to provide cumulative information for policy makers is discussed. They investigated the scope of problems, the federal role, cost issues, and technology. (SLD)

Hundreds of school districts nationwide are looking toward user fees to sustain programs inadequately funded by state income and property taxes. A recent survey found that 34 states now permit the assessment of fees against students. User fees raise equity and legality issues, limit student participation, and can be used to garner public support…

Provides a brief description of the U.S. Constitutional provisions and public laws affecting transportation of students with disabilities. Lists suggested inservice training program elements to ensure the provision of adequate training necessary to safely transport students with disabilities. (MLF)

The insurance industry has experienced a round of claims costs as a result of recent natural disasters. These costs are passed on to customers. To avoid higher premiums, student-transportation systems can take the following money-saving steps: raise the deductible; beef up driver training; focus on driver retention; and get the fleet's loss…

New federal rules mandate drug and alcohol testing for all school district employees who are required to have a commercial driver's license. Describes the major elements of a testing program and the types of testing required. Recommends building support for the testing program by involving employee labor leaders, board members, and a cross-section…

Surveys employees (N=4,979) of an Australian state railway to determine self-reported employee alcohol use and the influence of work-related risk factors on this use. Examination of risk factors previously associated with work-related problem drinking showed that gender, nights away from home for work, job satisfaction, and availability of alcohol…

Discusses safety issues for child care centers that provide transportation for children. Notes the importance of vehicle usage and control, driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance, child securement, accident procedures, and driver education and training. (JPB)

Briefly describes seven professional standards for school business officials from a document completed by professional standards committee and approved the Board of Directors of the Association of School Business Officials International in July 2001. Complete document is available on association's website at www.asbointl.org. (PKP)