Preschool Transportation
A child’s transportation to and from preschool is primarily the responsibility of the guardian or a guide authorized by the guardian. The preschool pupil may travel to the preschool alone if it has been agreed in writing with the preschool staff. It is possible to forbid the preschool pupil from travelling alone with a justified reason.
Transportation is arranged if:
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Distance is longer than 5 kilometers in one direction
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Koululiitu safety requirements are not met (travel is not safe)
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Travel is deemed too difficult, exhausting, or dangerous for the child by the professional statement of a doctor, social worker, or psychologist.
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Travel from family day care to preschool and back with specific reason, considering the local circumstances (local school policy). For example, if there are no daycare centres that offer preschool education in the area and the preschool place is located in the child’s future school.
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More information on school transportation principles (such as, how are distances calculated) you will find the School Transportation Guide.
Transportation is not arranged
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For daycare
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For private preschool education or daycare
Applying for transportation benefits
Transportation benefit is applied for with a specific form. The application requires an attachment of a statement from the preschool’s manager/principal, or an expert statement (doctor, social worker, psychologist). Expert statement does not obligate the city to provide transportation, but it is taken into account in decision-making.
The application form must be delivered to the daycare centre or school that provides preschool education by 30.4. once the preschool spots are confirmed.
Granting Transportation Benefits
If transportation benefit is granted to the child, it can be shared or individual transportation via bus or taxi. Transportation might be granted for only a part of the journey, and the travel can consist of partially traveling alone or escorting by the guardian to the agreed bus stop.
The decision of granting transportation for journeys longer than 5 kilometers in one direction is made by the daycare centre manager. Possible transportation for journeys less than 5 kilometers are decided by the district manager.
Temporary Need for Transportation
Temporary transportation to preschool because of sickness or accidents etc., are authorized by the district manager. The guardian must deliver a doctor’s statement which expresses the need and time period for transport. The school or daycare centre reserves the next weekday to arrange the transportation.