SD73 Promotes Year-Round School Bus Safety with “We Stop - You Stop”

The Board of Education is committed to student safety as a top priority in their commitment to student well-being in the District Strategic Plan. The Transportation Department prides itself on its commitment to providing safety training in all elementary schools to ensure that the youngest riders are aware of the safety aspects and behaviour expected while riding the bus as outlined in our District Learning Plan 2023 in the Systems Development Priority.

School Bus Safety Week is an active and evolving public education program, held during the third full week of October each year, designed to promote safety on school buses, addressing the importance of bus drivers, and to promote school bus safety and a way for parents, students, and school administrators to highlight the importance of safety on board the bus.

During School Bus Safety Week, which runs from October 16-20, 2023, School District No. 73 is actively promoting awareness with our chosen theme, “We Stop – You Stop”.

School Bus Safety Week, emphasized by Transportation Director Sherry Kristjanson, serves as a year-round reminder of the importance of safety on and around school buses and the dedication of our drivers. When approaching a school bus with the swing arm extended and red lights flashing, it is crucial for drivers to come to a complete stop.

“Ensuring the safety of our children is the top priority for our dedicated school bus drivers every school day.” Transportation Director Kristjanson said. “Our district covers more than 27,000 kilometers, and each school day, our drivers ensure the safe transportation of approximately 4,300 students over a total distance exceeding 9,000 kilometers.”

“Children who ride the bus to and from school depend on us to keep them safe,” said Dr. Rhonda Nixon, Superintendent of Schools. “It is important to champion this week as a reminder to continue the focus on being extra vigilant all year.”

It is vital to remember that in British Columbia, it is a legal requirement for drivers to come to a stop when they encounter school buses with flashing red lights.

To address student safety concerns, SD73 has produced a powerful 30 second video: #brake4buses.

During School Bus Safety Week, and every week, join us in ensuring student safety by following “We Stop - You Stop”.