Letter to the Editor: Dennis Boozer

School buses are on the road again as children are getting back to school on Monday, Aug. 20. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, school buses are the safest way for students to travel. But everyone plays a role in helping children ride to and from school safely.

Durham School Services student transportation provider for Dorchester School District Two, reminds parents of these important safety tips:

• Children should get plenty of rest so they won’t fall asleep on the bus.
• Have your child at the bus stop on time. Running after a bus is dangerous.
• Remind kids to stay out of the “danger zone” by keeping 10 giant steps away from the bus at all times so the driver can see them.
• Children’s clothing and backpacks should not have long ties or straps that could get caught when climbing on or off the bus.
• Kids should never put their head, arms or anything else out the bus windows.
• Students should cross in front of the bus crossing gate where the driver can see them.
• Caution children to stay on the sidewalk and be alert when walking.
• Make sure your kindergartner or first grader knows their address. This helps in cases where they board the wrong bus the first few days of school.

Motorists should use extra caution around school buses and stops, and never pass a school bus with its stop arm extended and lights flashing. More school bus safety information is available at durhamschoolservices.com.

We look forward to a great school year, and appreciate the community joining us in our commitment tothe highest level of student safety.

Dennis Boozer

General Manager, Durham School Services

Dorchester County School District Two