Transportation
Transportation Overview
Temporary Bus Route Changes (Yellow Cards)
Ms. Clark hamiltonms.attendance@seattleschools.org in the Hamilton Attendance Office is in charge of issuing Yellow Cards, which allow students to take an temporary, alternate school bus routes for a period of 1-10 days. A request, with parent’s written permission, must be brought to the Attendance Office before school on the day it is to be used.
Activity Buses
Activity Buses are school buses that are operated by the School District to take students home from Hamilton after they have participated in an HIMS-sponsored athletic event or an after-school HOST class. Arrangements for Activity Buses are made during registration for HOST classes or athletics and are confirmed in writing by the Seattle School District Transportation Office.
SPS Transportation
Seattle Public Schools provides free transportation for students who live within their school attendance area but outside the school’s walk zone.
If a student is placed in a program, such as deaf and hard of hearing services, that is not available in your neighborhood (attendance) area school, transportation is usually provided.
Transportation Eligibility Guidelines
- Elementary and K-8 schools have a 1-mile walk boundary. Eligible students are provided service primarily on yellow school buses.
- Middle schools have a 2-mile walk boundary. Service is either by yellow school bus or ORCA card for the Metro.
- High schools have a 2-mile walk boundary. Service is provided with an ORCA card.
Safe Routes to School
Biking and walking are great ways to get to school. Use the City of Seattle interactive map to find safe walking and biking routes to your school.
Walk, Bike, and Roll to School
Walking, biking, and rolling to school supports exercise, reduces pollution, and connects neighbors. Studies even show students arrive at school more attentive and ready to learn. Visit this page for resources to support you in walking, biking, and rolling to school.
Delayed Bus
Bus routes are sometimes delayed due to traffic, weather, construction, or other situations.
If your bus is late, we recommend your student stay at the bus stop. Please create a plan and discuss with your student what to do if their bus is late.
View today’s bus routes that are reported as running at least 15 minutes late.