One of the biggest questions families ask as the school year gets underway is “Will my child be able to ride the bus?” The answer depends on where you live and which school district your child attends.
School transportation varies widely throughout Monterey County. Some districts operate extensive bus systems, while others offer more limited service based on grade level, attendance area, available capacity, or specialized programs. Every family should check with their district directly to confirm eligibility, registration requirements, and bus stop locations.
REGISTER NOW IF YOU HAVEN’T ALREADY
If your child is eligible for bus transportation, don’t put off registering. Many districts require families to sign up each year, even if a student rode the bus previously. Some districts also require bus passes, while others assign students to routes after registration is complete.
Pickup times or bus stop locations may still shift during the first few weeks as enrollment numbers are finalized, so it’s worth confirming your child’s route and stop directly with your district’s transportation office rather than relying on last year’s information.
HELPING YOUR CHILD BE BUS-READY
For children riding the bus for the first time, a little preparation can make a big difference. Walk to the bus stop together so your child knows exactly where to wait. Plan to arrive at least five minutes before the scheduled pickup time, and remind children to stay well back from the curb until the bus comes to a complete stop.
Take time to review basic bus safety rules, including remaining seated while the bus is moving, keeping aisles clear, speaking quietly so the driver can concentrate, and following the driver’s instructions. Younger students should also know their bus number, their stop, and what to do if they accidentally miss it. Labeling backpacks with your child’s name and an emergency contact number can also be helpful during the first few weeks of school.
“Navigating morning drop-offs and after-school routines can be one of the most stressful parts of a parent’s day. At PGUSD, our priority is ensuring that every child arrives at school safe, happy, and ready to learn, while keeping transportation accessible and affordable for our families. We are so fortunate to have dedicated bus drivers and campus staff who greet our students with warmth and care every single day. ”
— Dr. Linda Adamson, Superintendent, Pacific Grove Unified School District
WHEN THE BUS ISN’T AN OPTION
Not every student qualifies for school bus transportation. Fortunately, many Monterey County families have other options. Walking or biking to school can be a healthy way to start the day for students who live nearby. Neighborhood carpools can reduce traffic and make busy mornings easier, while older students may be able to use Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) to get to and from school.
If your child is walking or biking, take a few practice runs together and review traffic safety, crosswalks, and safe street crossings. Families who are driving should get familiar with their school’s drop-off and pickup procedures to help keep traffic flowing and students safe.
START THE YEAR STRONG
Whether your child rides the bus, walks with friends, carpools, or takes public transit, these first few weeks are a good time to iron out any kinks in the routine. Save your district’s transportation office number in your phone, and have a backup plan in case a bus is delayed or a schedule changes.
A little attention now can help make these early weeks—and the rest of the school year—a little less stressful for everyone.
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