When transporting students with disabilities, what is an important consideration for the school bus driver?

TRANSPORTING STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES: Requires additional knowledge, training, and care. KEY CONSIDERATIONS: WHEELCHAIR SECUREMENT: Properly secure wheelchairs using the securement system (tie-downs at designated points) and secure the student with appropriate restraints; LIFTS: Operate wheelchair lifts safely and correctly; EXTRA TIME: Allow additional time for boarding and exiting; INDIVIDUAL NEEDS: Be aware of each student's specific needs (medical, mobility, behavioral); some students have specific procedures in their plans; SPECIAL EQUIPMENT: Secure medical equipment, oxygen, etc., properly; AIDES: Work with bus aides/attendants who assist these students (the driver and aide both have roles); COMMUNICATION: With the school, parents, and aides about each student's needs; TRAINING: Drivers transporting special-needs students typically receive additional training; EVACUATION: Plan for evacuating students who cannot exit independently; the driver must ensure wheelchairs and students are properly secured, use equipment correctly, allow extra time, and accommodate individual needs; transporting students with disabilities safely requires extra care, training, and attention to each student's requirements — it's an important responsibility covered in school bus training and tested on the endorsement.