High-risk scenario training offered to bus drivers – School News Network

Kent ISD — In an effort to help local school bus drivers prevent, avoid and respond to unexpected violence and threats, Kent ISD will host proactive response training for all school bus drivers on July 24.

The free training, developed by Katrina Morris, West Shore Educational Service district transportation director, will take place at the Forest Hills Fine Arts Center, 600 Forest Hills Ave. SE. The registration deadline is July 14.

Region 1 Emergency Coordinator John Wittkowski said there have been no serious bus incidents in the Kent ISD area; however, earlier this year, a non-student attempted to board a bus in order to escape law enforcement. That situation was resolved without incident, Wittkowski said.

That situation was a factor in Kent ISD security staff’s decision to host the training, Wittkowsi said. The course will focus on how to de-escalate a situation, deal with acts of violence and handle other incidents involving students, parents and community members, he said.

Training is open to all bus drivers in the Kent ISD area, including Dean Transportation drivers. Those who take the course can count the hours toward continuing education requirements.

Proactive Response training is sponsored by Dean Transportation, Forest Hills Public Schools, West Shore ESD and Kent ISD.

Learn more about Kent ISD:
• Preparing for an emergency, educators complete reunification training
• Building trust is key to preventing gun violence