Q and A

Double Route (Eligible for Extra Pay)

A double route occurs when a single bus and driver complete two separate routes back-to back due to a shortage of buses or drivers. The driver picks up and drops off one group of students first, then returns to pick up and transport a second group. Drivers will be paid for

completing double routes.

Combined Route (Not Eligible for Extra Pay)

A combined route occurs when two or more regular bus routes are merged into one trip. A single bus transports students from multiple routes in a single run. This consolidation happens when there are fewer students, and it may result in longer travel times or additional stops. Drivers will not receive extra pay for combined routes.

Questions occasionally arise about school bus operations during gusting or sustained high winds. Data from various sources have been reviewed to determine the point at which high winds become too dangerous for the safe operation of school buses. Many factors must be considered to decide when to cease school bus operation. Vehicle size, wind speed, wind direction, road conditions, and visibility must all be taken into consideration when making operational decisions during periods of inclement weather. Ultimately, the decisions must be made at the local level because what is happening in one area may be completely different from conditions in another area. With that in mind, there are other factors to consider when operating buses in windy conditions: 

• Wind forces of 35 mph or greater can affect steering and control. This is especially true for sustained winds in excess of 35 mph and/or wind gusts greater than 45 mph. 

• High winds can obscure visibility due to dust and debris blowing across the roadway. There is also a greater likelihood of trees falling into the roadway. 

• High winds can affect stopping distance. 

• Vehicles operating on elevated surfaces, such as bridges, overpasses, and causeways are more susceptible to the effects of wind because they are higher than the surrounding terrain. The same is true in mountainous areas. 

Here are a few recommendations to consider: 

1. Remind drivers of the hazards of operating vehicles during periods of high winds and wind gusts. 

2. Limit the operation of school buses to periods where local sustained winds below 35 mph or when local wind gusts are 45 mph or less whenever possible. Consider current site-specific conditions and forecasts when making operational decisions. 

3. If the National Weather Service issues a Wind Advisory or High Wind Warning, the winds associated with these conditions can affect the safe operation of a school bus. The operation of buses should be limited until conditions improve or the advisory/warning is lifted. 

4. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings and Tornado Warnings are issued for conditions that may not be safe for bus operations. When these warnings are in effect, bus drivers and transportation personnel should immediately refer to their local school district polices and safety procedures. 

5. Always try to park buses in an open area and on level ground. 

6. Close all windows, secure all doors, and in particular secure all roof hatches. If there are any questions regarding this matter, please contact the Division of Pupil Transportation at 601-359-3486. 

Reference material: 

The following definitions were taken from the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) - National Weather Service glossary, available at https://forecast.weather.gov/glossary.php: 

High Wind Advisory: This is issued by the National Weather Service when high wind speeds may pose a hazard with winds greater than or equal to 30 mph lasting one hour or longer, or winds greater than or equal to 45 mph for any duration. 

High Wind Warning: High wind speeds of 40 mph or greater or gusts 58 mph or greater may pose a hazard or is life threatening. There is a greater likelihood of downed trees and driving can be dangerous for high profile vehicles. 

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: This is issued when either a severe thunderstorm is indicated by the WSR-88D radar or a spotter reports a thunderstorm producing hail one inch or larger in diameter and/or winds equal or exceed 58 miles an hour; therefore, people in the affected should seek safe shelter immediately. Severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes with little or no advance warning. Lightning frequency is not a criterion for issuing severe thunderstorm warning. They can be issued without a Severe Thunderstorm Watch being already in effect. They are usually issued for a duration of one hour. 

Tornado Warning: This is issued when a tornado is indicated by the WSR-88D radar or sighted by spotters; therefore, people in the affected area should seek safe shelter immediately. They can be issued without a Tornado Watch being already in effect. They are usually issued for a duration of around 30 minutes. 

Wind Advisory: This means that winds of 25-39 mph and/or gusts to 57 mph are expected. Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution.