To create a more efficient district transportation program and address continuing staffing shortages, families whose children are eligible for bus transportation must update their student’s Bus Registration information in Aspen for the new school year.

We are asking all parents whose students are eligible for transportation to verify OR update their bus registration in Aspen.  You can update now through Aug. 15.

It is important to review your child’s current bus needs and verify or update for next school year. Accurate data for each student is necessary so the district can continue to run its buses without interruption. When families request transportation for their child but don’t use it, this causes undue strain on our system. Please only register your child for transportation if they need it for the start of school. Eligible families always have the option to add transportation service at any time during the school year. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Bus Registration

Who is eligible to ride the school bus?

• Elementary – All Students
• Middle School – Students who live more than 1/2 mile from school
• High School – Students who live more than 1 mile from school

Where can I check, verify or change my child’s bus registration?

You can visit Aspen to view the Bus Transportation Registration Form. The form is highlighted in blue under the Announcements section on your homepage.

I don’t see the bus registration information. Where is it?

In Aspen, under each of your student’s information, AM and PM bus choice will either be marked with a “Y” or an “N.” Here is where to find your child’s bus registration information.!

I need to make a change to my child’s bus choice for the start of the new school year. How can I do that?

Until August 15, you can use the Bus Transportation Choice Form on the Aspen homepage to make those changes. Click here to see how to access that information. After August 15, you will have to contact the Transportation Department directly.

Why is bus registration so important?

A nationwide bus driver shortage has significantly impacted the Bethlehem Central School District. Prior to COVID, the district had 87 bus drivers and routes. There are currently only 58 available bus drivers and routes. The district needs to create more efficient bus routes to maintain bus service for all eligible students while it works to recruit and retain qualified drivers. Accurate ridership data is the most important way to mitigate changes to bus service or bus eligibility. We are asking for your help!

When will my child’s bus route and bus stop information be posted for the new school year?

Your child’s bus registration information for the new school year can be found in Aspen starting on August 26.

What if I have an incoming kindergarten student? When will I be able to verify their transportation information?

You can do that now. Bus registration is done at the time of enrollment into the district as a new student. The information entered for incoming kindergarten students can be viewed or changed by families in the Aspen portal. 

What if I DON’T request transportation for the start of the school year but I find my child needs bus transportation during the year?

Students who do not choose bus transportation for the beginning of the year can always resume transportation with 48 hours’ notice to the Transportation Department.

What if I DO request transportation for the start of the school year but my child doesn’t end up riding the bus?

If a child does not ride the bus for a period of 10 days or more, the Transportation Department will reach out to the family to see if transportation is still needed. The district encourages families not to request transportation in Aspen if it’s not needed. Accuracy is important so the Transportation Department can plan appropriately for the start of the school year. Please remember you can always opt-in at any time during the year if your transportation needs change and your child is eligible for the bus.

What if I have a “once-in-a-while” need for bus transportation for my child?

We would ask that you don’t request transportation on the form but instead contact the Transportation Department to arrange transportation for your child if it is only needed a few times a year. Bus transportation is always available for eligible students.

What about situations at the elementary level when schools will not allow “walkers” in the afternoon due to inclement weather?

In cases such as inclement weather when walking home from school is not allowed and more students need to use the bus, the Transportation Department will work with the school to provide bus transportation to all who need it on those days. Student safety is a priority.

What if I have additional questions?

Please email any questions about transportation to  transportation@bethlehemschools.org