Everyone has a role in keeping students safe as they go to and from school. Whether students are walking, biking, taking the bus or driving, staying alert on the road and teaching kids steps they can take to stay out of harm’s way helps ensure safe transportation for all students this school year.

In a joint effort to encourage community awareness across the state, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) are teaming up for the second year to promote School Transportation Safety Week, Aug. 17-21. Following last year’s success, the agencies are focusing efforts again on a shared social media campaign offering safety tips for drivers and students to ensure safe routes to school. Families, organizations and schools are invited to share the message to reach communities in every corner of the state.

“This is an exciting time for families across Wisconsin as another school year approaches, and students are counting on all of us to help keep them safe as they go to and from school,” WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said. “WisDOT takes great care in ensuring safe school transportation, from bus inspections to traffic enforcement and education efforts. We are asking drivers to also do their part. Please make safe choices and exercise caution every time you get behind the wheel.”

WisDOT and DPI will share social media messages on various topics during School Transportation Safety Week. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to share the messages to help spread awareness. Topics include:

·       Monday: School crossing guards

·       Tuesday: Bus stop etiquette

·       Wednesday: Safe driving in school zones

·       Thursday: Driving near school buses

·       Friday: Pedestrian safety

“We all have a responsibility to make sure students can get to and from school safely,” State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly said. “Whether you’re driving, walking, biking, or riding the bus — slowing down, staying alert, and looking out for one another can make all the difference. Let’s work together to make sure every Wisconsin student gets where they need to go safely each day.”

School Transportation Safety Week will focus on sharing safety tips for drivers, students and families, including:

Drivers:

·       Follow speed limits

·       Watch for students, pedestrians and bicyclists

·       Avoid distractions

·       Follow instructions from crossing guards

·       Stop when you see red flashing school bus lights, and slow down and stay alert when the lights are flashing amber

Students:

·       Follow instructions of crossing guards

·       At a bus stop, stay five giant steps from the curb and always wait for the bus to stop before approaching

·       Look both ways before crossing the street

Families:

·       Talk with teen drivers about the importance of safe driving when entering and exiting school parking lots

·       Teach kids the importance of school bus etiquette, including how to safely get on and off the bus and never distract bus drivers

During School Transportation Safety Week and beyond, WisDOT and DPI encourage drivers and students to continue to make responsible choices that keep students safe on their way to school and back home. Learn more about school bus safety.