• State law requires all vehicles to stop for school buses when the bus driver activates the flashing lights and has the stop-arm fully extended.
• Drivers who violate the law face a $500 fine.
• Drivers can face more severe criminal charges for passing a school bus on the right, passing when a child is outside the bus, or injuring or killing a child. 
• Motorists must stop at least 20 feet from a school bus that is displaying red flashing lights and an extended stop-​arm.  Motorists traveling in the opposite direction on a divided roadway are not required to stop .
• Motorists should slow down, pay attention and anticipate school children and buses, especially in neighborhoods and school zones.
• The best way to be aware of your surroundings at all times is to put the distractions away.

• ARRIVE EARLY:  Students should be at bus stop 5 minutes before scheduled pick-up time
• STAND BACK FROM ROADWAY:  Students should wait 10 feet from the edge of roadways. 
• Look both ways before crossing the street.
• ALWAYS!!  Watch the driver for directions.
• Always cross the street in front of the bus so that student and driver can see each other. If more than one student is crossing the street, all students should cross together.
• CARRY BELONGINGS IN BACKPACK OR BAG:  This will keep belongings from falling under the school bus.
• ALWAYS USE THE HANDRAIL:  This helps students avoid slipping down the stairs when they are wet due to rain or snow.
• TAKE YOUR SEAT QUICKLY AFTER LOADING ONTO THE BUS
• STAY SEATED UNTIL THE BUS HAS COME TO A COMPLETE STOP WHEN UNLOADING
• Have your belongings ready before you reach your stop in order to leave bus quickly.
• AT NO TIME is the possession or use of alcohol, tobacco, weapons, illegal or flammable substances, or pornographic materials allowed at bus stops or on school buses.

Policy 709 - Student Transportation Safety