With the school year starting, it’s a good time to remind drivers to be vigilant when school buses are in the vicinity and to obey the law, which requires all motorists to stop when approaching or overtaking a stopped school bus displaying its flashing red stop arm.

Motorists have to remain stopped until the bus is no longer displaying its flashing red lights and stop arm. Violation of the law endangers children and is punishable by a fine and court costs in excess of $420. This short video, which helps explain the law, is available for free download and can be used on school websites: https://safetyvideos.org/understanding-school-bus-lights-and-stops/

The School bus Safety website contains numerous helpful documents and information pertaining to the safe transportation of students, including bus driver requirements, when school district policy is necessary, and regulations governing the safe operation of a school bus. An important webpage covers ELDT (Entry Level Driver Training) information.

Please follow this link: https://www.ksde.org/Agency/Fiscal-and-Administrative-Services/School-Finance/School-Bus-Safety

Also, a reminder about monthly zoom meetings for transportation directors and contractors – at 9:30 a.m. every first Wednesday of the month. The agenda is very informal. This is intended as an open forum to share information, discuss and answer any transportation questions you may have. The zoom link is posted on School Bus Safety Unit’s Upcoming Events website.     

Call the KSDE School Bus Safety Unit for assistance on pupil transportation:

Keith Dreiling                     (785) 296-4567           kdreiling@ksde.org  

Dennis Tate                        (785) 296-4545           dtate@ksde.org

Melissa Ostermeyer        (785) 296-5659             mostermeyer@ksde.org

Annette Blevins                (785) 296-3551             ablevins@ksde.org