School Bus Safety Reminder

With warmer weather on the way, we know more students will be walking, biking, and riding the bus to and from school. It’s a great time for a friendly, but important reminder about school bus safety for all drivers.

When a school bus stops, children may be crossing the road from multiple directions. Taking an extra moment to stop and wait helps ensure every student gets where they’re going safely.

Please remember these key safety tips:

• Stop at least 20 feet from a bus displaying red flashing lights or with its stop arm extended.
  This applies when approaching from both directions on undivided roads.

• Red flashing lights mean students are entering or exiting the bus.
  Never attempt to drive around a stopped school bus.

• Plan ahead when possible.
  Altering your route or schedule to avoid being behind a bus can help reduce risk and keep students safe.

• Watch carefully for pedestrians.
  Be alert for school crossing patrols, students, and families walking near bus stops and in school zones. Always slow down in these areas.

• Remember: it’s the law to stop for pedestrians.
  This applies at all street corners, including both marked and unmarked crosswalks.

This reminder comes as lawmakers in the Minnesota Senate recently passed a school bus safety bill to help clarify state law. The legislation reinforces that drivers must stop when a school bus has flashing lights activated, even if the stop arm has not fully extended — strengthening protections for students after a recent case reviewed by the Minnesota Court of Appeals.

At Sauk Rapids–Rice Public Schools, the safety of our students is always our top priority. A few extra seconds of patience on the road can make all the difference.

Thank you for helping keep our Storm students safe every day.