OCSD Conducts Successful Bus Driver Call-Back Drill

An Oskaloosa Community School District Press Release

OSKALOOSA, IA — On Thursday, October 20, the Oskaloosa Community School District conducted a bus driver call-back drill. The goal was to assess the speed at which the bus fleet would be able to arrive at schools to transport students and staff to a safe location, in case of emergency.

The drill involved the transportation office and bus drivers, in collaboration with Mahaksa Emergency Management and the Mahaska County Sheriff’s Office. Students and staff did not participate.

The drill began at 12 p.m., with bus drivers moving from the transportation office to the elementary school, and then finishing the procedure by driving to the secondary campus.

The drill at Oskaloosa Elementary School was especially successful, with three buses arriving at the staging area close to the school within 13 minutes, 10 arriving within 20 minutes, and 16 arriving within 30 minutes.

“Today’s drill is another step forward for school preparedness,” said Josh Stevens, Mahaska County Emergency Management Director. “The information that we gathered from this drill will be utilized to create and improve emergency plans throughout the district. It was great work with all the partners that were involved today.”

“I am pleased to report that the drill went well at all our buildings thanks to the collaboration of everyone involved,” said Mike Fisher, OCSD Superintendent. “Oskaloosa’s small-town, southeastern Iowa values were clearly demonstrated in our drivers’ ability to respond quickly and ensure the safety of our students.”

OCSD will continue to conduct safety drills throughout the year and update its emergency plans on an ongoing basis, with the input and support of local partners.