The Wheels on the Bus Go Round and Round

By Linda White

“I got a window seat!” “I sat with my best friend!” “It was great!” “I met some kids that will be in my class!” “I liked singing and clapping on the bus!” “It was so much fun!” “I just loved it.”

– Comments shared by incoming kindergarten students after their inaugural school bus ride.

The traditional and much loved Davis School Kindergarten Bus Run took place on Wednesday, August 17. The entire incoming kindergarten class, 191 members strong, and their families were invited to Davis School to meet with Davis School Principal Beth Benoit, kindergarten teachers and to take an initial ride aboard the big yellow school bus.

Tons of excitement and just a bit of apprehension were both in the air. As the event began, the level of excitement continued while the apprehension quickly disappeared.

Principal Benoit addressed a combined audience of children and adults, reviewing some of the basic safety rules of riding the school bus. The Davis mascot, Froggy, was used to model correct bus riding etiquette, and the kindergartners were quick to pick up on Froggy’s tips and rules. Two yellow school buses pulled up for each of the two scheduled sessions and students were invited on board, without parents or family, to practice their new skills and take a short trip.

Parents spent adult time with Principal Benoit learning about transportation policies, how to make their children most comfortable about riding the school bus, and daily school dismissal procedures. Time was available to address audience questions before the buses returned to Davis.Families were invited outside to greet their students, snap some photos and share snacks and beverages on a beautiful day.

Principal Benoit commented, “I’m excited for the new school year. This is my fourth Davis kindergarten bus run. I look forward to it as much as the students and enjoy the anticipation and excitement of each new class entering Davis. I also look forward to seeing the smiling faces of returning students who can’t wait to share highlights of their summer vacation.”

Benoit continued, “BEST (Bedford Elementary Schools Together) does a wonderful job coordinating this special event for Davis families. Thank you to Holly Munsie, BEST Vice President for Davis School, and a welcoming group of BEST parent volunteers who kept the flow of incoming kindergarten students and their families fueled with snacks and information.”

And yes, there were more than a few choruses of “The Wheels on the Bus Go Round and Round” resounding in the air. It was just perfect.