Information for Parents and Guardians of Students Who Attend an MCPS High School

NOTE:  The following information does not apply to Magnet, choice, or students receiving specialized transportation. 

Bus route information is available through ParentVUE and on the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Division of Transportation Services (DOT) website. Please note the appropriate time, location, and route number for your child. Students should be ready and waiting to board the bus five minutes prior to its scheduled arrival time. Many routes are designed so that students do not need to cross a major roadway to use the bus. This is indicated on route descriptions by “RSO” (right side only) next to the bus stop notation. Parents should not allow their children to circumvent this safety measure by crossing the road to use a different bus stop if there is one on their side of the street. Parents should contact their depot manager if there are no bus stops on their side of the street. Route numbers are displayed on the bus's side window.

In accordance with Montgomery County Board of Education Policy EEA, Student Transportation, students who live within two (2) miles of the school are not eligible for transportation services if age-appropriate walking routes are available. Questions should be directed to the transportation cluster manager responsible for your school. Keep in mind that previously scheduled bus stops may have been eliminated or relocated to achieve operational economies. Every effort is made to minimize inconvenience to students and parents and provide a reasonable level of service. Saving support budget dollars provides more resources for classrooms.

When bus stops are scheduled at intersections, students should stand safely away from traffic, within 150 feet of the stop. Parents are responsible for maintaining discipline and safety at bus stops. Students waiting for buses may choose to stand in carports and garages for protection from the elements. This is acceptable only if:

1. it does not alter the route;
2. it does not increase the number of stops;
3. it is acceptable to all parties involved; and
4. it is reasonably close to the regular stop (so that a substitute bus operator, not familiar with special arrangements, may easily locate the students).

MCPS realizes substantial fuel and other operational savings by limiting the number of bus stops. Please note that bus operators are authorized to stop only at designated stops; do not request unauthorized stops.

Inclement weather creates many hardships for all. It is not possible to provide additional transportation during the winter months or on rainy days; therefore, students should dress accordingly. If buses are unable to reach designated stops due to snow and ice accumulation, parents are encouraged to make advance arrangements with bus operators so that students living in these areas can board at alternate locations when necessary.

Appropriate student behavior is important to everyone's safety and comfort. Parents are encouraged to discuss behavior with their children regularly to reinforce this message. It is important that all students follow the rules stated in the “Ride by the Rules” document. For more information, please visit https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/transportation/rules/. Please note that students should not bring animals, alcohol, tobacco, weapons (including toy or “look-alike” weapons), glass containers, or explosives on the bus. Students must also adhere to the MCPS Student Code of Conduct at all times.

Buses are scheduled to arrive at the dismissal bell time for your school; however, patience and flexibility are needed due to factors such as traffic congestion, construction projects, weather, and other variables beyond our control.

Student transportation can only operate effectively if we all do our part to make things work. Parental assistance and cooperation are needed to provide a safe transportation system for student riders.

Thank you for partnering with DOT to ensure that your student has a successful bus ride.