SOCSD Launches B.U.S. Positive Behavior Initiative for Bus Riders

The Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District (SOCSD) has launched a new initiative to reward good student behavior on bus rides. The initiative, known as the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) approach to behavior management, will encourage and reward students for exemplifying satisfactory behavior on school buses.

B.U.S. Initiative Rewards Positive Behavior

The B.U.S. initiative emphasizes on the following mottos: Be Responsible (B), Use Respect (U), and Stay Safe (S). This move is a concerted effort to create a positive and safe environment for bus riders throughout their commute to and from school.

The objective of this program is to furnish students for their educational day by fostering a conducive and uplifting environment on the bus. Studies conducted by behavior specialists findings show that a recognized behavior is more likely to be repeated by students. Hence, SOCSD believes that recognizing and appreciating good behavior is a vital way to ensure student success.

How does the B.U.S. initiative operate?

During the 2024-2025 academic year, bus drivers will be handing over B.U.S. “tickets” to students who display positive behavior. Each ticket will be part of a raffle draw conducted after every nine weeks. The lucky winner will receive a cash prize of $125 as a reward for their commendable behavior. Thomas Stewart, a Jacket Alumni father, has generously funded these rewards. Stewart runs Architectonics, a professional architecture firm in Starkville.

Training for Transportation Staff

The implementation of the B.U.S. system saw members of the SOCSD Transportation Department, including bus drivers, being trained in managing positive behavior. They learned to manage situations on the bus effectively, encourage positive behavior and respond to individual behaviors appropriately.

Here are the expectations students need to meet in the B.U.S. program:

• Be Responsible: Follow the instructions given by drivers and monitors and adhere to their assigned bus stops.
• Use Respect: Use polite language and maintain appropriate voice levels.
• Stay Safe: Remain seated with back against the seat, seat stationary against the bus seat, and feet on the floor. Keep hands and objects inside the bus.

Engaging Parents in the B.U.S. Program

The SOCSD seeks parents’ support in reinforcing these behavioral codes as students will be bringing home part of the ticket they earn for exemplary behavior. “As we roll out the B.U.S. program, we anticipate a positive response from our students and look forward to their continued excellence,” said Guntharp. The reward draw for the first B.U.S. program is slated for Wednesday, August 21.