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MASS Reminds You to Practice Caution as Kids Head Back to School

Drivers urged to exercise caution around school zones, buses and crossings

JACKSON ― As summer winds down and students head back to the classroom, the Mississippi Association of School Superintendents urges everyone to prioritize safety, especially around school zones, buses and crossings. A few extra moments of caution can make a world of difference in helping children stay safe.

All drivers have a responsibility to keep an eye out for young pedestrians who may not always be aware of traffic rules or notice potential dangers. In fact, Mississippi motorists are required by law to stop at least 10 feet from school buses when they are loading or unloading and must not proceed until all children have crossed the street, red lights stop flashing, the extended stop-arm is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving.

“We’re reminding motorists to be extra vigilant, obey all traffic and school bus safety laws, and ensure that kids return home safely to their families every day,” said Phil Burchfield, MASS executive director. “Our children are our most precious resource, which is why we ask you to join us in helping to keep our roads safe both now and year-round.”

Drivers also should pay attention to posted speed warnings and crossing signs especially at the beginning and end of each school day. Understanding when and where children will be most active can help you anticipate potential hazards and adjust your driving accordingly.

Here are some helpful tips for safe driving during back-to-school season:

• Know your route — familiarize yourself with local school zones and schedules along your route if you are driving during peak school commuting hours.
• Expect the unexpected — since children can be unpredictable, be prepared for them to dart into the street without warning.
• Avoid distractions — keep your eyes on the road and do not eat, drink, text or do anything that would divert your focus from what is ahead of you.
• Obey speed limits — school zones have reduced speed limits for a reason, so slow down and be prepared to stop suddenly.
• Be alert — always obey school crossing guards and watch out for children who may decide to cross on their own.
• Watch for buses — yellow flashing lights indicate the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. Red flashing lights and extended stop arms indicate the bus has stopped and children are getting on or off.

“Kids and their parents are counting on motorists to slow down and be watchful, because one second of inattention or distraction can cost a life,” Burchfield said. “In every case, such tragedies are 100% preventable. Put your cell phones away, keep your eyes on the road and obey traffic laws. It’s that simple.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration publishes school bus safety tips for parents, students and motorists at https://www.nhtsa.gov.

The Mississippi Association of School Superintendents and the Alliance of Educational Leaders of Mississippi is a non-profit association whose membership is made up of 139 public school superintendents and more than 2,000 public school administrators. Its mission is to provide resources, advocacy, leadership, policy information, training, support, renewal, and public relations services that improve the quality of public education.