Rainbow route frequently asked questions.
How can I register for the Rainbow Route Program?
To register, enroll your child in a preschool of your choice. Once the school registration is completed, the preschool will provide you with the Rainbow Route application link for transportation registration.
Who is eligible for the Rainbow Route program?
Families with preschool-aged children facing transportation challenges to attend preschool are eligible for the Rainbow Route Program.
If I turn in my application early, is there a better chance of getting on the Rainbow Route?
There are no placement guarantees when applying. We will review your child’s application thoroughly and identify the appropriate bus route once your student's preschool enrollment has been completed.
How will I know if my child was placed on the Rainbow Route bus transportation program?
Expect a letter notification the first week of August regarding your child's placement on a bus route or waitlist.
What if we move during the school year?
If you move during the school year, call United Way of Mower County to change the pick-up/drop-off address. There is no guarantee that transportation will continue.
How is my child placed on the Rainbow Route?
When placing a student, we review the pick-up/drop-off address, seats available on the bus, distance to and from school, past incidents, etc. Once an application is submitted, we will review the application and work to find a bus route that best fits the student.
What if my child is placed on the waitlist?
If a child is placed on the waitlist, they will remain on the waitlist until a route is available that fits the student's pick-up/drop off address and school location. There is no time limit. United Way of Mower County will call the parents/guardians when the child is placed on the Rainbow Route program.
Where is the designated pick-up/drop off location?
The goal is to arrange pick-up and drop-off directly in front of the student's house. Exceptions may occur based on the house location, especially if the bus encounters difficulty navigating the street. In such cases, pick-up/drop-off may be arranged at the corner of the street near the home.
Who will be riding with my child?
Only preschool students as well as a bus aide and bus driver will also be riding the bus. Bus aids will help children on and off the bus and will be available in case of any emergencies. Please keep in mind that, while we make every effort to ensure that a bus aid is available at all times throughout routes, there may be occasions when one is not available and the bus driver will be the only adult present.
What happens if I am not there when the bus drops my child off?
The bus driver will contact the SMART dispatcher who will attempt to reach the parent or emergency contact person identified on the child’s registration form. The Bus Aide will stay with the child at the SMART bus garage until the child is picked up by an appropriate adult. If an appropriate adult cannot be located, Law Enforcement will be called. Please be aware that in cases where the parent/guardian is not prepared for the child on multiple occasions, removal may be considered.
How much will this service cost?
The fare for a single ride is $1, while a round trip (to and from preschool) costs $2. However, this pricing does not apply if you are a recipient of a United Way preschool scholarship or if you are attending CLC or Headstart.
What happens in the case of inclement weather?
The Rainbow Route buses will follow the school district decision in case of inclement weather. If schools are closed, the bus will not run. If school closes early the bus will pick students up early. If schools are two hours late the bus will not pick up for morning preschool classes.
What if my child is sick or does not need to ride the bus?
If your child is sick, or will not be riding the bus, parents must call SMART to notify the bus driver that a pick-up/drop off is not needed. Please call 855-762-7821.
What is the pick-up/drop-off procedure?
For SMART to accept a child on the bus, the bus aide must visually see the parent/caregiver send the child out to the bus. When a child is dropped off, the bus aide will not release a child unless they visually witness a parent/caregiver at the home to accept the child.
What if there is an incident on the bus or my child is aggressive towards other children or staff?
If an incident occurs on the bus, SMART will record a written Incident Report and the parent will be contacted to address any physical, verbal or accidental incident. If verbal or physical aggression continues without change, it is at the discretion of SMART, Parenting Resource Center and or United Way of Mower County to remove the student from riding the bus.
Who do I contact for support?
SMART - (507) 433-2379
- To cancel drop off/pickup
- Common inquiries regarding the bus's location, the student's whereabouts, potential delays, etc.
- Applications ( change of address, emergency contacts, etc.)
- Concerns
- General Questions
If you have additional questions please feel free to contact United Way of Mower County at
507-437-2313 or via email at [email protected].
507-437-2313 or via email at [email protected].
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