First Ride Program is a school bus safety program, offered by Grande Prairie Public School Division, Grande Prairie & District Catholic Schools and First Student, that introduces young children and their parents to the school bus and school bus safety. The program consists of a 30 minutes presentation that is focused on school bus safety, 10 minutes video followed by a short ride on a school bus. The program is offered twice a year.
"First Ride" is a positive learning experience for you and your child. This program gives parents and students a basic understanding of safety, rules, and procedures on the school bus. We hope you will be able to take part in the "First Ride Program".
This is a free program focused on students entering Preschool, Kindergarten, and Grade 1 who will use the bus in the fall; however, any student who is new to busing or would like a refresher can attend. No registration required.
Event Date
Date: August 21, 2024
Time: 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Location: Gymnasium at Ecole Catholique Louis Riel, 6201 Tamarack Drive, Grande Prairie
Cost: Free
Registration: Not required
Please note that a parent or caregiver must always remain with your child during the event.
For more information, or if the date has passed and your child needs support, contact GPPSD's Transportation Department at 780-539-7419.
Frequently Asked Event Questions
Why do parents/caregivers want to attend this event?
We want you and your child to share in this experience so you can help them through out the school year.
What happens during the First Ride event?
After viewing a video, you and your child will learn all about getting on the bus, how to behave while travelling, and how to exit the bus properly. Afterward, we will take you on a short bus ride to experience what riding on a bus - just like the “big kids."
How long does the event run?
The experience runs about 45 minutes.
Do I have to accompany my child?
Yes, a parent/caregiver must accompany the child through this event.
How can I help my child prepare for their first day taking the school bus?
- Practice using landmarks to help your child recognize their stop.
- Encourage your child to tell their bus driver if they are not sure which stop theirs is.
- Tell your child to stay on the bus if they are not sure when to get off the bus or if they have missed their stop.
- Preschool and Kindergarten students will not be allowed off the school bus in the afternoon at a stop if there is not a parent/caregiver to meet them. The only exception to this is if you have provided a letter, email or phone call to our transportation department.
Once school starts, can my Preschool or Kindergarten-aged child get off the school bus in the afternoon by themselves?
- No, if you are not meeting your child at their bus stop and are instead walking with an older sibling, you need to notify our school division by letter, email or phone call.
- For the safety of your child, notification must be received before your child is allowed to exit the school bus.
