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Code of Conduct on Water Taxis

Eligibility for school transportation is based on School District 64’s policies and procedures. Water taxi safety protocols are set to maintain a safe and reliable mode of transport. All students are accountable to the school Principal and the Director of Transportation, who has the authority to ensure student conduct on water taxis is appropriate. Failure to abide by this code of conduct may result in the loss of transportation privileges for students.

Safety depends heavily on student behaviour, and so it's very important that students act in a responsible manner in and around the water taxi. To enhance the safety of students and staff, School District 64 authorizes the use of video surveillance equipment on the water taxi as per policy 3650.

It's important that we all work together to keep our students safe while travelling on the water taxi. Please review the rules and expectations of water taxi transportation with your student.

Expectations of Water Taxi Riders

  • Always listen to the water taxi captain, they are responsible for the safe operation of the water taxi.
  • Use the provided transportation card when embarking and disembarking the water taxi,
  • All passengers are to be at the dock five (5) minutes prior to departure.
  • Water taxi transportation will not be available to non-registered riders. 
  • Students are to wait at the top of the ramp until the captain signals that it is safe for them to proceed to the boat.
  • While riding the water taxi, students must remain in their seats at all times. Sit facing forward for the entire trip until the vessel comes to a COMPLETE STOP. Students who do not sit properly in their seats can be seriously injured.
  • Speak quietly. Excessive noise, loud singing, shouting etc. can be a distraction to the water taxi operator and the safe operation of the vessel.
  • There should be no physical contact between students.
  • Keep aisles clear of belongings to not pose a tripping hazard and allow for safe vessel evacuation if required. Personal belongings including backpacks must be stowed under the seat or on your lap.
  • Do not use abusive language or profanity.
  • Do not throw items, smoke, vape, fight or any other such activity that may interfere in the safe operation of the vessel or endanger the safety of others.
  • No eating or drinking. There may be a student on the water taxi with an allergy or this may pose a choking hazard.
  • No live animals are allowed. Only certified guide/assistance animals are permitted.
  • Students must embark and disembark at their home island port and the island they attend school on.
  • Do not willfully damage the water taxi in any way. Parents/guardians are responsible for payment of repairs.
  • Parents/guardians are responsible for their students’ safety until they board the water taxi, prior to boarding the water taxi and after disembarking the water taxi, this includes while travelling to and waiting at the port.

Thank you for your cooperation. 

Any questions? Please contact the Transportation Department at 250-537-5723 or email transportation@gulfislandssecondary.ca

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