Thousands of students across Arlington ISD rely on school buses to get to and from school safely every single day. Making sure they do is our top priority. The Transportation team is committed to providing students and families with safe, efficient and reliable bus service, but they can’t do it alone.
Bus safety is a team effort. Whether you’re a student, parent, or driver sharing the road, here are a few things you need to know to help keep everyone safe on and around school buses.
Safety Starts Before the Bus Arrives
Parents and guardians, you can help prepare your students for a safe ride by reminding them of a few simple rules:
- Wait at your designated bus stop or have a safe place to wait for your bus, away from traffic and the street. Please be at the bus stop at least 5-10 minutes prior to bus pull-off time.
- Stand back at least three giant steps (about six feet) from the curb while waiting for the bus.
- Never play near the road while waiting for the bus.
- Stay away from the bus until it comes to a complete stop and the driver signals you to enter.
- Please refrain from conversations with the driver as they are trying to stay on schedule, monitor the kids, and operate the bus. If you need assistance, visit the Transportation website or give us a call.
Always pay attention to the traffic around you when approaching or leaving the bus pick-up and drop-off area. All drivers on the road are required to follow certain safety rules around school buses. However, not every driver does, so always be extra careful.
On the Bus: Respect and Responsibility
Once on the bus, students should always:
- Move to their assigned seat and stay there for the whole ride.
- Stay seated facing forward
- Keep aisles clear with backpacks in laps and feet on the floor
- Use quiet voices to avoid distracting the driver
- Follow the driver’s instructions at all times
Bus drivers are trained professionals who care about your children’s safety, and they need full attention on the road. That’s why respectful behavior isn’t just polite – it’s essential.
Getting Off the Bus Safely
When exiting the bus:
- Walk and use the handrail.
- Exit the bus carefully and walk ten giant steps away from the bus.
- If crossing the street, always wait for the driver’s signal and make eye contact before stepping in front of the bus.
- Never cross behind the bus.
For Drivers in the Community
Texas law requires all vehicles to stop when a school bus has its stop arm extended and red lights flashing. That means:
- Stop whether you’re behind the bus or approaching from the opposite direction (unless on a divided highway).
- Remain stopped until the lights stop flashing, the stop sign folds in, and the bus begins moving again.
Ignoring these rules puts children at risk and comes with steep penalties.
A Shared Commitment
Bus safety is everyone’s responsibility, from the district to the community. With a shared commitment to safe habits and attentive driving, we can make every ride a safe one.
If you have any questions about busing, please visit the Transportation department at www.aisd.net/transportation.