As summer fades, students are preparing new backpacks and school supplies for the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year. Ensure you’re prepared for school-related traffic and aware of students.
Each school day, millions of children ride school buses. When you see a school bus slowing down or stopping, it’s not just the bus that you need to have your eyes on – but the surrounding area too. Children wait at least several feet away from a bus and often cross the street when they’re boarding or getting off the bus. This is why you must stop for school buses, and don’t attempt to pass.
Parents with students riding the bus should walk through the following information with them, before the school year starts. Tips for parents to help keep students riding the bus safe:
- Arrive early: Your child should arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus arrives. Ahead of the new school year, visit the bus stop and show your child where to wait for the bus, at least ten feet — five giant steps — away from the curb. Remind your child that the bus stop is not a place to run or play.
- Getting On and Off Safely: When the school bus arrives, tell your child to wait until the bus comes to a complete stop, the door opens, and the driver says it’s okay to get on or off. Use the handrails to avoid falling.
- Always Use Caution Around the Bus: Never walk behind a school bus. If your child must cross the street in front of the bus, tell them to walk on a sidewalk or along the side of the street to a place at least ten feet (five giant steps) in front of the bus before crossing. Your child should also make eye contact with the bus driver before crossing to make sure the driver can see that they’re crossing to avoid the danger zone. If your child drops something near the school bus, like a phone or book, the safest thing is for your child to tell the bus driver right away. Your child should not try to pick up the item, because the driver might not be able to see them.
Whether you're behind the wheel or waiting at the bus stop, staying mindful of school bus safety helps protect students and keeps our communities safe.