General Education Transportation Services

San Marcos Unified School District provides safe and reliable transportation for eligible general education students attending their neighborhood schools. Eligibility is based on grade level and distance from the school site, in accordance with Board policy. We coordinate bus routes with school bell schedules to minimize ride times and ensure timely arrival and dismissal. All school buses are equipped with GPS tracking, enabling parents to monitor their child's bus location in real-time through the “Here Comes the Bus” app. Our drivers are certified professionals committed to student safety, and our buses are maintained to the highest standards by our in-house team of skilled mechanics.

General Education Transportation Services – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is eligible for general education transportation?
Eligibility is based on California Education Code and SMUSD guidelines. Generally, students qualify if they live within the school’s attendance boundary but beyond the minimum walking distance and within their school boundary:

• Elementary & K–8: 1 mile or more

• Middle School: 2 miles or more
  High school general education service is not provided except for Twin Oaks High School.

2. How do I apply for bus transportation?
Most schools require pre-registration through the SMUSD Transportation Department. However, Twin Oaks High School students do not need to pre-register. Bus drivers at Twin Oaks will collect student names, verify enrollment, and issue bus passes directly.

3. How will I know my bus stop and time?
Once approved, you’ll receive an email with your assigned stop, pick-up time, and drop-off time. Times may change throughout the year due to construction, traffic changes, or ridership adjustments.

4. What if my student misses the bus?
If your student misses the morning bus, it’s the parent’s responsibility to get them to school. Students should arrive at the bus stop at least 5 minutes before the scheduled pick-up time to avoid missing the bus.

5. Can my student ride home with a friend?
No. Students may only board or exit at their assigned stop for safety and accountability.

6. What happens if my student loses their bus pass?
Contact the Transportation Department at 760-290-2670 or email bus.info@smusd.org for a replacement.

7. Are there rules my student must follow on the bus?
Yes. Riding the bus is a privilege. Students must follow the bus driver’s instructions at all times, remain seated while the bus is moving, and treat others respectfully. Misconduct may result in suspension of riding privileges.

8. Who do I contact with questions about routes, stops, or eligibility?
Call the Transportation Department at 760-290-2670 or email bus.info@smusd.org.

9. How are bus drivers trained and qualified?
All SMUSD bus drivers undergo background checks, drug and alcohol testing, medical certification, and ongoing safety training. Our buses are inspected daily and meet all California Highway Patrol safety standards.

10. What if there’s a change in my student’s address or school assignment?
Notify the Transportation Department as soon as possible so we can update routes and ensure your student has a valid stop assignment.

11. How do I purchase a bus pass, and what does it cost?
Bus passes can be purchased by completing a General Education Transportation Application.  Once the completed application is approved, you will be emailed from no.reply@mail.droplet.io with further instructions on bus stop location, associated bus stop departure times, and how to pay for the bus pass.  Please keep a lookout for this email; it may be in your spam folders.  Bus pass types and costs are below:

• Full Year – Route Trip Bus Pass: $725
• Full Year – One Way Bus Pass: $400
   
• Half Year – Route Trip Bus Pass: $400
• Half Year – One Way Bus Pass: $200
   
• Coupon Book of 40 Single Ride Tickets: $100
  A special coupon book bus pass will be issued.  If siblings are sharing a book, each student must have applied for transportation.