Transporte escolar: garantia de acesso e cidadania aos alunos(as) da Escola Estadual Brigadeiro Felipe

Abstract

This study aims to understand how school transportation operates in the municipality of Arraias/TO, with a specific focus on students from Escola Estadual Brigadeiro Felipe. It is based on the understanding that the right to quality education is fundamental and must be guaranteed for all children and young people, including those living in rural areas. During supervised fieldwork, it was observed that the school received a significant number of students from rural areas who depended on school transportation to attend classes. In this context, some teachers pointed out that the long commute could be a determining factor in the low levels of academic achievement among these students. This observation led to an investigation into various aspects of school transportation, such as the time spent in vehicles, distances traveled, boarding and drop-off schedules, the quality and safety of transportation, among other factors. Methodologically, the study was based on a literature review supported by relevant authors and regulations, including Molina (2005), Arroyo, Caldart, and Molina (2004), as well as legal documents such as the Federal Constitution (BRASIL, 1988), the National Education Guidelines and Framework Law (BRASIL, 1996), and specific resolutions for Rural Education (BRASIL, 2008). Additionally, a case study was conducted at the aforementioned school, in which questionnaires were administered to gather essential information about how transportation impacts students' learning. The questionnaires were answered by both students and the school's pedagogical team. The results highlighted several challenges faced by students in accessing education, including structural problems with transportation, long commuting times, and negative effects on academic performance. The analysis reinforces the need for more effective government actions, with continuous evaluations of educational policies for Rural Education. In this context, school transportation plays a crucial role, as without it, many of these students would not be able to attend school, compromising their right to education.