Trainer Tools

Regular-ed driver appraisal

Local-only draft storage, section scoring, observation details, signatures, and print/PDF output for field evaluations.

Average

2.0

Accuracy

N/A

Items

28/28

Autosave

Ready

Driver info
Pre-trip / Post-tripAvg 2.0 - 6/6 applicable

Used Zonar

How well did the driver use Zonar for pre-trip and post-trip?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Logged in without help and selected the correct bus / inspection type
  • Started and completed both pre-trip and post-trip in Zonar
  • Scanned all required zones / tags and recorded defects correctly
  • Did not require the trainer to “drive” the tablet for them

Up-to-date route sheets

Are the driver’s printed route sheets present, readable, and current for today?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Driver can quickly locate route sheets when asked
  • Sheets match the current route (stops, times, schools)
  • Changes are neatly updated (no confusing scribbles / old copies)
  • Emergency info and maps (if required) are available with the sheets

Used Wayfinder

How confidently did the driver use Wayfinder (or trip software) for today’s route?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Opened the correct app without help
  • Selected the correct route / trip for this run
  • Understands basic functions (start, next stop, student list, etc.)
  • Needed little to no coaching while using the app

Bus cleanliness

Is the bus clean, safe, and presentable inside and out for students and the public?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Floors reasonably swept; no trash, food, or major spills
  • Seats, rails, and steps free of obvious dirt, clutter, or hazards
  • Driver area (dash, console) organized—not covered in trash or food
  • Exterior reasonably clean; windows and mirrors not excessively dirty

Appearance

Is the driver’s appearance professional and appropriate for transporting students?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Clothing is clean, appropriate, and does not restrict safe driving
  • No offensive images or text on clothing
  • Overall appearance reflects professionalism and district expectations
  • Driver is ready at start time (not still getting dressed / prepared)

Proper footwear

Is the driver wearing safe, appropriate footwear for driving and evacuations?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Closed-toe shoes (no sandals or flip-flops)
  • Heel and sole are secure (no loose slides / backless shoes)
  • Soles provide reasonable grip (not excessively smooth / slippery)
  • Shoes appear in good condition (no major damage)
Student Loading & UnloadingAvg 2.0 - 14/14 applicable

8-Way Loading Lights (200’ min)

Does the driver correctly use the 8-way loading lights at least 200 feet (minimum) before the stop?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Activates amber/8-way lights at the correct distance before the stop
  • Does not wait until they are already at the stop to turn on lights
  • Cancels lights appropriately if the stop is skipped or conditions change
Observation details

Cautious approach to students

Does the driver approach students cautiously and under full control of the bus?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Reduces speed smoothly when approaching the stop
  • Watches student behavior and traffic while slowing
  • Does not rush into the stop or brake harshly near students
Observation details

Stopped 12’ before students

Does the driver stop approximately 12 feet before/out from the students at the stop?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Stops the bus before reaching the group of students
  • Leaves a safe cushion so students are not crowding the bumper
  • Avoids rolling or creeping while students are near the roadway
Observation details

Parking brake set

Does the driver correctly set the parking brake at loading/unloading stops?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Applies the parking brake after coming to a full stop
  • Does not move the bus with the parking brake still applied
  • Releases the brake only after students are clear and it is safe to depart
Observation details

Transmission in Neutral

Does the driver place the transmission in Neutral when required during loading/unloading?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Shifts into Neutral after stopping and before opening the door (if required by policy)
  • Verifies gear selection before attempting to move again
  • Avoids unnecessary shifting or gear changes while students are near the bus
Observation details

Mirror double check

Does the driver use a proper mirror scan and double-check before moving the bus?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Performs a final mirror sweep before releasing the brake
  • Checks student danger zones on all sides of the bus
  • Looks for late-running students approaching the stop
Observation details

Stopped 60’ from intersections/hydrants

Does the driver avoid stopping within 60 feet of intersections or fire hydrants when possible?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Chooses stop locations away from intersections where practical
  • Avoids blocking crosswalks, driveways, and hydrants
  • Adjusts stop location if safety or visibility is compromised
Observation details

Universal signal

Does the driver correctly use the universal signal when students cross or when needed?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Uses the district universal signal consistently with crossers
  • Does not wave students across without a clear, standard signal
  • Stops students if traffic conditions change suddenly
Observation details

Students load/unload orderly

Are students loading and unloading the bus in an orderly, controlled manner?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Students do not push, run, or crowd around the steps
  • Driver uses firm but respectful directions as needed
  • Lines or groups move in a predictable, safe pattern
Observation details

Students seated & noise level

Does the driver have students seated promptly with an appropriate noise level?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Students sit down quickly after boarding
  • Noise is kept at a level where the driver can hear traffic and alarms
  • Driver addresses disruptive behavior that could affect safety
Observation details

Depart with dead throttle

Does the driver depart the stop using “dead throttle” (rolling before applying throttle) when appropriate?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Releases brake and lets the bus roll slightly before applying throttle (if appropriate for bus type/policy)
  • Avoids harsh acceleration with students nearby
  • Departs smoothly without jerking the bus
Observation details

Rapport with students

Does the driver maintain positive, professional rapport with students at stops?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Uses respectful tone and language
  • Balances friendliness with clear authority and safety expectations
  • Students generally respond positively to directions
Observation details

Student check after each run

Does the driver perform a proper student check after each run?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Walks the length of the bus (or uses required procedure) after the run
  • Checks all seats and the floor area for remaining students
  • Follows district procedure for signage/devices indicating “bus empty”
Observation details

Flag / ribbon up or down

Does the driver correctly use any required flag/ribbon indicator (up/down) for student checks?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Uses the flag/ribbon (or similar device) according to district policy
  • Moves the indicator at the correct time in the run sequence
  • Does not forget to reset the flag/ribbon when required
Observation details
Defensive DrivingAvg 2.0 - 4/4 applicable

Space cushion & following distance

Does the driver maintain a safe space cushion around the bus, especially in front?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Maintains appropriate following distance for speed and conditions
  • Avoids tailgating and sudden braking whenever possible
  • Leaves space to maneuver out of trouble when traffic changes
  • Adjusts following distance in rain, snow, or heavy traffic
Observation details

Mirror scanning & awareness

How consistently does the driver scan mirrors and the road environment?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Performs regular mirror checks (every 5–8 seconds, or similar)
  • Checks mirrors before lane changes, turns, and braking
  • Anticipates hazards (merging vehicles, pedestrians, bikes, etc.)
  • Demonstrates awareness of blind spots and vehicles entering them
Observation details

Speed & conditions

Does the driver adjust speed appropriately for conditions and road environment?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Obeys posted speed limits, especially in school and residential zones
  • Reduces speed in poor weather or low visibility
  • Approaches curves, ramps, and turns at safe speeds
  • Does not “rush” to make up time at the expense of safety
Observation details

Signals, lane changes & turns

How well does the driver use signals and lanes when turning or changing lanes?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Signals well in advance of lane changes and turns
  • Chooses the correct lane early and avoids last-second moves
  • Completes turns smoothly without swinging wide or cutting corners
  • Checks mirrors and blind spots before and after lane changes
Observation details
Railroad CrossingsAvg 2.0 - 4/4 applicable

Proper stop placement

Does the driver stop the bus at the correct distance and location at railroad crossings?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Stops within the required distance from the nearest rail (not on tracks)
  • Positions the bus to clearly see down the tracks in both directions
  • Does not roll or creep forward while scanning
  • Uses hazard lights or other required signals appropriately
Observation details

Door & window procedure

Does the driver correctly use door/windows and listen/look before crossing?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Opens the service door (and window if required) to look and listen
  • Ensures radio, fans, and other noise are minimized during the check
  • Takes enough time to visually check both directions
  • Closes door properly before moving across the tracks
Observation details

Crossing in correct gear

Does the driver cross the tracks smoothly in the correct gear without stopping?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Selects the proper gear prior to crossing the tracks
  • Does not shift gears while on the tracks
  • Crosses promptly without hesitation once committed
  • Maintains control and does not accelerate excessively or too slowly
Observation details

Student & bus interior management

Does the driver manage students and interior noise appropriately at crossings?

Satisfactory
Expectations
  • Reminds students to remain quiet or uses a standard crossing phrase
  • Ensures students stay seated and away from the aisle during the crossing
  • Does not allow distractions while scanning tracks
  • Resumes normal bus environment only after the crossing is complete
Observation details
Comments and signatures

Driver signature

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Trainer signature

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