School Bus Safety 101
As we embark on a new school year, Cumberland County Schools is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our students and staff. We must maintain a secure and orderly environment with nearly 23,000 students transported daily on our school buses.
We observed a rise in families boarding school buses to address concerns. Please be reminded that only authorized school personnel and students are permitted on school buses. Unauthorized individuals may face criminal charges for trespassing or impeding the operation of a school bus.
If you have concerns or issues, we strongly encourage you to contact your child's school administrator, who is equipped to help resolve these matters effectively and safely.
Your cooperation is crucial in keeping our students safe. Together, we can make this school year a success.
We thank you in advance for your support.
Back-to-School Bus Safety Tips:
1. Be Ready for Delays
Traditional schools in Cumberland County resume on Monday, August 26, 2024. Expect delays as school buses "hit the roads"and children are out in the early morning and afternoon hours. Be reminded that drivers and students are learning new bus routes and stops.
2. Unauthorized individuals are not allowed in school buses
Only authorized school personnel and students are allowed on school buses. Unauthorized individuals may face criminal charges for trespassing or obstructing the operation of a school bus.
3. Follow School Zone and Bus Rules
When approaching a school zone or school bus, be ready to stop for bus and pedestrian traffic. Passing a stopped school bus with flashing red lights and an extended stop sign is illegal. Yellow flashing lights signal motorists to slow down, while red flashing lights instruct motorists to stop.
4. Plan Ahead and Exercise Caution
Plan ahead and be extra cautious. Traffic will be heavier in school zones, especially with many students walking or riding bicycles to school. Slow down and increase your stopping distances. If possible, leave earlier than usual to avoid stressful traffic delays.
5. Eliminate Distractions
Don’t text and drive. Put down your phone and eliminate any other distractions inside your car to stay focused while driving.
6. Avoid School Zones, if Possible
To reduce congestion and enhance safety for students, motorists should avoid school zones, if possible.
7. Be careful while crossing the street
Parents/ guardians and students, let’s remember about School Bus Safety and look both ways before crossing the street!
8. Be Patient and Stay Alert
Please be patient and stay alert. Our goal is to ensure everyone has a safe and excellent school year! Stay safe and remember, safety first!
