Course Description

This School Bus Train the Trainer Recertification course is designed by the Missouri Safety Center to ensure that experienced trainers remain current with the latest state and federal regulations, operational best practices, and essential safety protocols. Participants will receive critical updates regarding the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and the Department of Revenue (DOR), alongside a refresher on Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) pre-trip inspection standards, enabling them to continue delivering high-quality, compliant training to school bus drivers throughout Missouri.

Course Objectives and Outcomes

Stay Current with DESE Transportation Regulations

Receive comprehensive updates on recent legislative changes impacting school transportation, including revised definitions and operational guidelines. Refamiliarize yourself with best practices for student management, vehicle operations, emergency procedures, and specific requirements for transporting students with diverse needs, ensuring trainers can implement and teach according to the most current DESE standards.

Navigate DOR Licensing and Compliance

Gain a thorough understanding of the latest requirements from the Department of Revenue concerning Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDL), school bus (S) endorsements, and driver qualifications. Knowledge gained will encompass updates on REAL ID, medical certification processes, the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (DACH), and accurate interpretation of driver records, equipping trainers to guide drivers through current licensing and compliance mandates.

Current Pre-Trip Inspection Protocols

Reinforce your understanding of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s (MSHP) standards for thorough pre-trip inspections. Trainers will become proficient in the systematic process for identifying potential mechanical problems or safety issues before operation, understanding critical components to check, and effectively teaching these vital safety checks.

Understand ELDT Implications

Attain clarity on the federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements and their impact on new CDL applicants and those seeking endorsements. Trainers will develop a comprehensive knowledge of ELDT regulations as enforced by FMCSA and understood by state agencies, enabling them to correctly advise trainees on training prerequisites and provider registry use.

Administrative and Record-Keeping Proficiency

Review essential administrative duties and record-keeping practices vital for compliance and state aid. Trainers will learn to effectively manage and explain accurate ridership documentation and mileage tracking, enabling clear communication of these responsibilities to drivers and school district personnel for smooth operations and reporting.

Other Information

This course is for those needing to recertify as a school bus driver trainer. Though this course is offered every year, it is only required once every 3 years for certified trainers. This course is not an ELDT train-the-trainer course, nor is it an ELDT training.

Registration/tuition cost for this course is $150.00. Lunch is not provided for this class.