What is the role of the California Department of Education concerning school bus drivers?

The California Department of Education plays a crucial role in the training and certification of school bus drivers, ensuring that they meet the state's standards for safety and competency. This responsibility includes developing training programs and establishing certification requirements to ensure that all school bus drivers are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate school buses safely, adhere to traffic laws, and manage the diverse needs of students during transportation.

By focusing on training and certification, the Department of Education helps maintain high standards for school transportation safety and enhances the overall quality of services provided in California schools. This role is vital as it directly impacts the safety of students during their commutes. The other responsibilities, such as issuing driver's licenses, continuous assessments, or managing bus routes, fall under different agencies or departments, highlighting the specific function of the California Department of Education in enhancing school transportation safety through driver certification.