There will be “reduced capacity on school buses” as “guidance for school buses requires that students adopt 3 feet distancing” so “school buses can accommodate between 7 and 17 students, depending on the vehicle.”
This is according to a Government notice, which said, “The Ministry of Transport advises the public of reduced capacity on school buses effective Monday, 10 May 2021.
“The Ministry of Health Covid-19 guidance for school buses requires that students adopt 3 feet distancing on school buses while the country is in Phase 2.
“As such, students that are not from the same household are not permitted to sit shoulder-to-shoulder until further notice. This applies to both DPT buses and minibuses and results in approximately 50% reduced capacity. Therefore, school buses can accommodate between 7 and 17 students, depending on the vehicle.
“The Ministry has contracted additional minibuses to assist with the capacity shortfall and is encouraging parents to make alternate transportation arrangements, where possible, for travel to and from school.
“All other school bus requirements remain unchanged, including hand sanitising upon entry, wearing a face mask at all times, minimising conversations while onboard, and maintaining natural ventilation with the windows open, as weather permits.
“This will be reviewed as the country progresses through Phase 2.
“The Ministry of Transport reminds the public that each of us has a role to play in stopping the spread of the coronavirus. Follow Public Health guidelines, wear a mask, practice good hand hygiene, maintain physical distance and download the WeHealth Bermuda app. Do the research, talk with your doctor, and make an informed decision about getting the COVID-19 vaccine.”
