On Day 3 of School Bus Safety Week, the Vicksburg Warren School District (VWSD) is focusing on driver awareness and the shared responsibility of the community in keeping students safe. School buses are one of the safest forms of transportation for children, but accidents can happen when drivers fail to follow traffic laws or remain distracted near school buses.
Drivers in our community play an essential role in school bus safety. Stopping for a school bus with flashing red lights is not just a law—it’s a matter of protecting the lives of our children. We are asking all drivers to be especially mindful during school hours when buses are picking up or dropping off students.
Important Reminders for Drivers:
Stop for School Buses: When a school bus has its stop-arm extended and red lights flashing, all drivers must stop—whether they are on the same side of the road or coming from the opposite direction on undivided highways.
Stay Alert: Avoid distractions like using a cell phone, and keep an eye out for students walking to and from bus stops.
Be Cautious in School Zones: Drive slowly and carefully in school zones, especially during bus loading/unloading times.
VWSD is also urging parents to talk to their children about remaining vigilant around traffic, even when riding the bus. Students must always be aware of their surroundings. While drivers have the legal responsibility to stop, we also want to teach our students to be cautious and watchful when getting on and off the bus.
By working together as a community, VWSD believes that every student can enjoy a safe, worry-free journey to and from school.