Attention motorists: school buses are here

Milan Community Schools were welcoming students back to school last week as were many others in the area. Elementary School Principal Travis Rohrig’s shirt matches the color of the buses as he greets students above.

The big yellow school buses are on the move transporting children, our greatest resource. Motorists are encouraged to just slow down, be aware and give the courtesy (it’s the law) to the buses. When the lights are on and that big arm comes out just stop. It seems so simple and yet each year bus drivers catch people on their video cameras rolling past the bus.

You may need to be on the lookout for children as they are sometimes uncertain when crossing a major highway. Please be extra cautious and give plenty of time for them to make a quick change.
Parents should encourage children to stay on the sidewalk or in a designated waiting area until the bus comes to a complete stop and the driver gives the signal that it’s safe to get on or off the bus. Children should never walk behind the bus. Always cross in front.

It takes everyone looking out for children to make sure they are safe when riding the bus to school. Motorists are encouraged to slow down near crosswalks and school zones where children may enter the roadway without warning. Always watch for the reduced speed limits in school zones and watch for buses in the morning and afternoons as those are prime times for buses. Just one distraction can affect your life and the lives of others – stay off your phone!

It’s the same every year when the new school begins. Just be aware and use caution so everyone can reach their destination safely.