Every school day, more than 25 million students ride the yellow school bus — the safest way to get to and from school. But risks remain, especially in the “danger zone” around the bus, where most injuries occur. In this episode of Safer Ed, we explore why bus drivers are a school’s first line of defense in safety, and how parents, schools, and communities can support them.

Through this conversation, we highlight the critical role drivers play in daily safety, the challenges posed by illegal passings, and the shared responsibility that ensures every student’s ride to school is safe and secure.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why the “danger zone” around buses poses the greatest risk to students.

• The many responsibilities bus drivers carry beyond just operating the bus.

• The startling data on illegal passings — and why it’s one of the biggest threats to student safety.

• How a “safe systems” approach — engineering, enforcement, technology, and training — protects drivers and students.

• The role of parents, administrators, and communities in reinforcing safety expectations.

• Why safe bus rides contribute directly to calmer, more focused learners in the classroom.

  
  

Resources & Further Reading

• ⁠The Importance of School Bus Safety⁠

• ⁠Back to School, Back to Safety: Why Bus Drivers Are Our First Line of Defense⁠

  
  

  
  

  
  

  This episode was generated in part using AI tools. All content was reviewed and approved by our editorial team before publication.