National School Bus Safety Week, held annually during the third week of October, is an active and evolving public education program. It is an excellent way for parents, students, teachers, motorists, school bus operators, school administrators, and other interested parties, to join forces, promote and address the importance of school bus safety. School districts throughout the country observe School Bus Safety Week.
This year’s theme is “Red Lights Mean STOP!”
Our Southeast Polk Transportation Department is committed to providing safe and dependable transportation for our students to and from school and school-related activities. Approximately 3800 Southeast Polk students rely on our team of dedicated bus drivers and mechanics every school day. Our buses and other vehicles cover 114 square miles, traveling a combined 840,000 miles per year.
Dan Schultz, Southeast Polk Director of Transportation, shared some interesting facts, “The district buses eliminate about 2700 cars from the road daily. That’s like a line of cars bumper to bumper for 7.5 miles every day! We also help save the environment by removing 2332.9 tons of CO2 emissions and reducing the use of fossil fuels by 133 million gallons of fuel per year. “
Bussing this year looks a bit different. Riders are required to wear masks, cleaning/disinfecting efforts have been ramped up and the new buses have safety belts. But the commitment remains the same. Check out all the safety videos our transportation department has created on their Transportation Webpage and review safety guidelines frequently. Below are some tips from the NAPT.
Here Are Some Bus Stop Safety Tips Provided By The National Association For Pupil Transportation
We are so proud of the work our bus drivers do on a daily basis. If you see a school bus driver today, please thank them! And as always, practice safe bus guidelines!
