Central Bucks To Conduct School Bus Evacuation Drills Next Week

DOYLESTOWN, PA — The Central Bucks School District will be conducting mandatory school bus evacuation drills next week in predetermined safety zones on school property.

According to Christopher Robbins, the district's director of transportation, schedules for the drills have been shared with schools and drivers in advance so the drills can be completed efficiently, with additional staff on hand to support students and minimize disruptions whenever possible.

"One of my fondest memories as a student was the excitement of hopping off the school bus through the rear door, a small moment that felt like a big adventure," said Robbins. "Fast forward a few decades, and it’s remarkable to see that same joy and curiosity still shining through in our students today.

"Times have changed and so have our safety standards," Robbins continued. "We continue to teach this process in a safe, structured, and supportive way. Rather than 'jumping' out, students are taught to calmly sit, scooch, and exit the rear door carefully, with assistance from classmates and CBSD staff as needed. Safety, teamwork, and preparedness are at the heart of this experience."

Because safety is the number one priority, Robbins said the district is asking for the public's attention and cooperation during drills:

• When a bus is actively conducting an evacuation drill, no vehicles should approach or pass the bus
• Once the drill is complete and the rear door of the bus is fully closed, normal traffic may resume
• We recognize that these drills may temporarily slow traffic and cause minor delays, not only on our campuses and around our buildings, but also at individual bus stops

"We appreciate your patience and understanding as we take these important steps to ensure every student knows how to respond in the unlikely event of an emergency," said Robbins.