Dear Bus Lady

When a school bus with the 8 light system has a problem with the stop arm, what are the options? Example: bus has been properly checked out at beginning of the day, but at some time during a route that day the stop arm ceases to deploy. However, the red lights at the front and back of the bus are operating normally. Should the bus be 1) pulled off route, 2) stopped in its tracks, or 3) allowed to finish the route?

Thanks,

Broken Arm

Dear Broken Arm,

I know you would like me to select option one, two or three, but it is inappropriate for me to do so.

We’ve all had the experience of discovering a change in a bus’s function during or after the pre-trip inspection. As a driver, your role is to immediately report any condition of the bus that may cause mechanical breakdown or affect the safe operation of the bus. Your employer has staff assigned and qualified to respond. You will receive instructions on how to proceed from that point.

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Dear Bus Lady,

I keep hearing about Roadeo, but never did one before. I asked around but we don’t have a practice area and everyone seems too busy. How can I learn how to drive in one? Maybe I’m too late.

Have Saddle, Willing to Ride

Dear Have Saddle,

It’s never too late to try something new! Most Roadeos are sponsored by CASTO, however, some companies have their own events. You can ask local districts if they participate and have practice areas, or connect with your local CASTO chapter to find out what is happening in your region. Roadeo season generally starts in March, but it’s never too late to learn and/or get involved.

If there isn’t time or means for you to practice, you can still participate. Any bus that is registered at Roadeo is available to any driver, as long as you are qualified to drive the bus. So you may decide to enter “cold turkey”. Or consider volunteering as a judge. The Roadeo Committee developed comprehensive guidance for judging each event (cheat sheets), so you can learn about the events from outside the bus. Judges are needed at local Roadeos and at Northern Division, Southern Division and State. It’s a great opportunity to learn, and you will find Roadeo people are enthusiastic about sharing what they know.

Please check CASTO Chapter listings in CASTOways, and online at www.castoways.org. Also, there is a Contacts page on the CASTO website. Look for someone in your area and send them an email! Any CASTO member is more than willing to help you get started.

See you at Roadeo. Giddy Up!

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