FCS Introduces New Innovative Bus Safety Vehicle to Enhance Student Safety

Fulton County Schools (FCS) recently introduced "Buster," an innovative addition to the district's transportation safety initiatives. Buster, a large remote-controlled miniature school bus, measures approximately three feet in height and extends four to four and a half feet from front to back. Outfitted with moving eyes, flashing lights, working stop sign, and a functional crossing gate, Buster is designed to engage and educate the district’s youngest students on vehicle and bus safety. It’s like having a friendly robot bus teach students about staying safe.

Designed especially for students in Pre-K to 2nd grade, Buster is all about making safety expectations fun, memorable, and interactive. Inspired by an idea that came up in an interactive museum exhibit, Buster was created to help teach important lessons in a way that keeps students engaged. With the help of a headset, safety facilitators can talk to students as Buster—even from 40 feet away!

Buster is more than just a cool gadget.

“Buster is Fulton County Schools' latest transportation safety ambassador for our young students and is a fun, lighthearted way for us to engage and teach students about transportation safety,” said Executive Director of Transportation Services Vickie Cross. “He is part of a broader plan to ensure that district students understand and practice safe behavior on the bus.”

The safety team has also developed Positive Behavior Intervention Strategies (PBIS), a safety curriculum that bus drivers can share with students. These lessons are reinforced with fun coloring books students can take home, ensuring that safe behaviors are remembered and practiced. Currently, FCS has one Buster unit, which is easily transportable across the district. However, additional units may be ordered based on the program's success.

Buster was introduced to the community during the recent Fulton’s Finest Luncheon, where he greeted guests with winks and a comical, fun acknowledgment, giving audience members a taste of how students will interact with him.

“We have plans to officially start programming in October and are excited to see him in action across the district as there is anticipation that this innovative tool will significantly enhance bus safety education for young students,” Cross said.