Important Message About Monday's Transportation Plans

Hello School District of Washington Families,

We want to thank our families for your patience and understanding during this stretch of inclement weather. As we prepare to have school on Monday, January 13, we ask for your continued flexibility and assistance to ensure the safety of all students and staff.

Despite ongoing efforts, some district roads may remain dangerous for buses, especially with the stopping and starting required to pick up students. If your road was already ice-covered prior to Friday’s snow, please begin planning alternate transportation for Monday.

Here are a few ways to help get your child to school safely if your bus stop is not safe: As a note, this includes specialized transportation as well:

Drive your child to school if they typically ride the bus.

For middle or high school students, you can take them to the nearest elementary school at their usual bus time, and a bus will pick them up from there.

Take your child to the nearest main road for bus pick-up. If choosing this option:

Plan to arrive at the main road stop about 15 minutes earlier than usual in case buses are running ahead of schedule due to fewer stops.

Turn on your headlights and flashers to help bus drivers spot you.

Watch for the yellow, First Student buses.

Bus drivers will be prepared to look for students in those areas.

Please note: This is a new process, and while we will do our best, alternative routes may not run as smoothly as regular routes. If buses are unable to pick up your child or miss your stop, we may not be able to send them back, and an absence may be necessary.

If you have questions or need assistance with your specific address or an alternative bus route, please call First Student today (Friday) until 5:00 PM at (636) 239-1429.

As always, if you do not feel safe traveling on your roads, please call your school to report your child’s absence.

Thank you for thinking ahead and helping us ensure a safe and successful school day on Monday, January 13.

Dr. Jennifer Kephart

Superintendent, School District of Washington

Jennifer.Kephart@sdowmo.org