Wednesday, October 23, 2024 is School Bus Driver Appreciation Day! In Bluewater District School Board, we take this opportunity to share our thanks with the many bus drivers who service routes across our district. We recognize their tremendous dedication and commitment to safety for our students and others who ride school buses, during daily commutes to and from school, and with a variety of school-related activities and trips.
Our gratitude also extends to all the bus operators, monitors, and the transportation staff at Shared School Services (formerly Student Transportation Service Consortium of Grey-Bruce).
Take a moment today, and this week, to thank a bus driver and the staff who support them for their important work in supporting safety in our communities.
School Bus Driver Appreciation Day coincides with School Bus Safety Week, which runs from October 21 to 25, 2024 to raise awareness of the importance of ensuring safety on school buses and for drivers who share the road with them. Everyone on and within proximity to the road, from drivers and passengers to cyclists and pedestrians, have an important role to play in following the rules and paying attention to ensure safety for all.
Vehicles are required to come to a full stop when a school bus is displaying its flashing red lights. Failing to do so can result in hefty fines and demerit points, according to the Highway Traffic Act. It is also illegal to overtake a school bus when it is displaying its stop sign and activating its red lights.
Parents/guardians are reminded to discuss school bus behaviour with their children. When on the bus, students are encouraged to keep bags on their laps, remain seated for the duration of the ride, maintain respectful interactions with peers, and do their part to minimize distractions for the bus driver.