School Bus Safety (See Diagram): 

• Drivers should keep an eye out for students walking to, and waiting at, school bus stops. 
• Be aware that school buses make frequent stops. 
• When a bus is stopped, drivers should know the rules for when they need to stop: 

• On any road with three or fewer lanes, vehicles traveling in both directions must stop. 
• On a road with four or more lanes, vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop, and those traveling in the opposite direction can proceed with extreme caution. 

• Parents should have continuous conversations with their students on the importance of following bus stop safety rules. 

Pick-up and Drop-off Safety: 

• Students should use designated crosswalks on the way to the bus stop, and stay out of the roadway while waiting for the bus.  
• Students waiting to be picked up by parents should stay on the sidewalk or within the designated pick-up area at their school. 
• Those picking up students should yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and keep an eye out for children who may be crossing the street. 

• Students and parents should double-check for bicycles before entering or exiting vehicles. 

As parents, students, and bus drivers get used to their new routines, drivers are encouraged to give themselves additional time for both morning and afternoon commutes. Extra time will allow for more patience and grace and reduce any thought of disobeying traffic laws. 

“Meridian school resource officers will be connecting with both students and parents as they arrive at school during the first few weeks,” said Sgt. Morgan Carter, “reminding them to be aware especially when driving in and around school zones. It is important to slow down, obey all traffic signals, and watch for pedestrians as we all work to get to school on time. We encourage parents and students to leave early in order to make it to school safely and on time.” 

Driving Safety: 

• Drivers should watch diligently for school zone signs and posted speed limits within those zones. 
• Keep an eye out for small children in crosswalks and on sidewalks. 
• Respect crossing guards and practice patience.  
• Keep phones and other distractions down and keep eyes on the road. 
• Plan ahead by checking for road closures, detours, and any crashes that may impact your commute.  

“Drivers headed to schools or just driving by on their normal commute should be aware of increased activity around schools. Flashing yellow lights mean slow down and pay attention.  Boise Police officers will be watching school zones closely over the next few weeks as everyone gets used to the back to school routine” said Boise Police Sgt. Matt Konvalinka. “Drivers can never be too safe when it comes to school zones." 

Walk and Roll Safety: 

• Use sidewalks and bike lanes whenever possible.
• Always use designated crossings.
• Obey all signals and instructions from crossing guards. 
• Avoid entering the roadway between parked cars.
• Keep your eyes up and be aware of your surroundings.