Driving Safety Forward: A Community Effort

This year, National School Bus Safety Week and Michigan’s Operation Safe Stop will be held Oct. 20-24. These events are a powerful opportunity for everyone, from school districts to parents and community members, to raise awareness about the critical importance of school bus safety.

According to the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services, a survey of 3,153 Michigan bus drivers in May 2025 reported motorists illegally passing a stopped school bus more than 2,200 times in a single day. This statistic underscores the need for constant vigilance and clear communication.

To help promote awareness and ensure the safety of our students, school districts are encouraged to share these key safety tips with their communities:

• Prepare to stop when a slowing school bus has its overhead yellow lights flashing.
• Stop at least 20 feet away from buses when red lights are flashing, unless you are driving in the opposite direction on a divided highway.
• Slow down in or near school and residential areas.
• Look for clues like safety patrols, crossing guards, bicycles and playgrounds that indicate children might be in the area.
• Watch for children between parked cars and other objects.

Operation Safe Stop, an enforcement campaign, runs concurrently with National School Bus Safety Week. Districts can participate in this statewide initiative by:

• Partnering with Local Law Enforcement: Collaborate with local police departments to organize enforcement campaigns and educational events in your district.
• Promoting Public Awareness: Use social media, newsletters and other communication channels to inform the community about the importance of school bus safety and the serious penalties for passing a stopped school bus.
• Educating Students: Teach students about school bus safety rules and the consequences of violating them.

“As a company, we’re doing our part to make sure there’s awareness around the flashing red lights on a school bus meaning stop,” said Patrick Dean, president of Dean Transportation. “We’ll continue to partner with school districts, law enforcement and others to ensure a safe environment for everyone traveling to and from school.”

For more information and resources, Dean Transportation has additional school bus safety materials available on its website.