All-Star Transportation To Promote Message

Of World Day Of Bullying Prevention

All-Star Transportation announced this week it will be participating in Blue Shirt Day, a part of the World Day of Bullying Prevention on Monday, October 1.

More than 750 All-Star Transportation employees, including school bus drivers and bus monitors, will be wearing blue T-shirts emblazoned with a graphic that says “Be Nice on My Bus!” throughout the state, including in Newtown.

“There is no such thing as ‘sticks and stones will break my bones but names will never hurt me’ in real life,” said Safety Supervisor Brenda Bass, who spearheaded All-Star’s effort. “A child who is bullied is scarred and it can affect them for the rest of their life.”

Connecticut school bus drivers are mandated by state law, since January, to report in writing any potential bullying issues on buses within 24 hours of the incident. All-Star Transportation drivers have received awareness and prevention training.

“Our buses need to have a safe and secure climate so that each child can feel comfortable and safe,” said Leslie Sheldon, co-owner of All-Star Transportation.

One driver can transport up to 78 children per route, while driving a 40-foot vehicle and facing away from the passengers.

“Drivers are expected to maintain the safety inside the bus while facing roads with the challenges that they bring,” said Ms Bass. 

Federal law now requires that any school bus built after 2010 will have a seat height of 43 inches, which makes it even more challenging for a driver to see younger children over the height of the seat. The height was added to improve safety in a crash.