It’s back-to-school season, and Crookston Public Schools Transportation Director Rick Niemela, along with the Crookston Police Department, wants to make sure the community is aware of proper bus safety procedures.
One significant change occurred in March, when Minnesota state laws regarding proper bus-to-vehicle distances were changed. The law requires drivers to stop at least 20 feet from a bus whenever the red lights are flashing, even if the stop arm is not extended. This update closes a loophole that allowed drivers to previously try to “beat the arm” when passing a bus, a risky move that puts children in danger. Niemela mentioned that each bus is equipped with a camera to detect anyone trying to pass a bus when it’s stopped, so the police department can issue citations to those drivers who break the law. “You have to be aware of all your surroundings. You need to stop anytime those red lights are on, so be aware of that because a bus could be stopping at any time, and make sure you stop 20 feet back in either direction from that bus. The buses are all equipped with stop arm cameras. Last year, we had 35 incidents that were turned in for violations. We’re able to get that information and turn it in, so you’re being watched all the time.”
Another change is the drop-off and pickup procedures at Highland Elementary School. The buses will still drop-off and pick up students by parking on the south side of the school, and parents will not be allowed to use the bus zone for drop-offs and must wait for all buses to depart before using that area for picking up 1st thrugh 5th grade students after 3:00 p.m. Niemela was working with Highland co-principals Greg Garmen and Dave Kuehn to ensure safety for all children when getting off and on the buses but warns there may be some traffic back-ups for pick up times. “In the morning, the drop off has changed now again, so everybody will have to drop off through that far east entrance. The buses will be the only thing allowed in front of the school. That changed this week, so the afternoon could be congested, as the parents are waiting to get in there to pick up their kids while the buses are loading.”
Crookston Police Department Deputy Chief Nathan Nelson urges residents to please help keep students safe, whether they are biking, walking, or taking the bus to school. Some of their safety tips include:
-Slow down in school zones
-Watch carefully for children crossing the street
-Put distractions away while driving
-Be prepared to stop for school buses
-Remember that children can be unpredictable and may enter the roadway unexpectedly
Both Nelson and Niemela emphasize the importance of staying vigilant at all times and ensuring children can get to school safely and enjoy the new school year. “I just want everybody to have a safe year. If you have to cross the street, make sure you’re watching. Sometimes, the other cars and vehicles around you are not. Be very cautious of doing that, and drivers should be cautious anytime they see a bus, even if it doesn’t have any flashing lights on. Be aware that the kids could be coming on at any time.”
