School bus question

[Anonymous]

My child is moving from private to an MCPS middle school next year. It so happens that the same bus that goes to my home and my mother's home are on the same bus route. Do you know if the school would have a problem if I arranged it so that he got off at my home on certain days, and at the stop closest to hers on other days if I needed to work late. She doesn't drive so this would be a wonderful bonus if this could happen.

[Anonymous]

I am not sure about middle school, but in elementary school, you just write a note to the school saying that your child will be changing plans and will get off at bus stop at XYZ street, instead of ABC street. You could probably just write the note at the beginning of the year, if it is a consistent schedule.

There is probably a lot more independence in middle school, and as long as the child knows where to get off, then the bus driver probably does not care.

[Anonymous]

It should not be an issue at all. Once the driver is familiar with the rhythm of your child's week, your child will be able to get off at the right stop on the days he needs to, no problem.

[Anonymous]

OP here. Thank you both for such quick replies! This is really great news -- being on the same bus route was just a happy accident, but I can't begin to tell you how much easier my life will be if he can go there for afterschool.

Do you think it would work the other way? If I'm on a business trip, could he hop ON the bus at her house and ride it to school in the morning?

Wow, this is really great!

[Anonymous]

No problem either end of the day. My children get off and on a different stops depending on the day and it is a non-issue. The school only assigns a bus not a stop.. Good for playdates in the neighborhood too..

[Anonymous]

As long as your child knows where to be and where to get off, it will not be a problem. Welcome to the convenient world of Public School!

[Anonymous]

When you can, wait with your child at the bus stop either before or after school. Make friends with your bus driver and introduce your child and the situation. My daughter's bus driver is very nice. I also remember riding the bus to school, we all knew the driver and he knew us. Also, talk to the safety patrols at your child's bus stop.