The Texas Department of Public Safety is urging drivers and families to make safety a top priority as students return to classrooms across the state, according to an agency news release issued ahead of the new school year.
The reminder covers the moments when children are most exposed: school zones, bus stops and crosswalks during morning drop-off and afternoon pickup. “As students head back to school, we’re asking every driver to make safety their top priority,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. “Slow down, eliminate distractions and remain alert — especially in school zones, at bus stops and in high-volume traffic areas. Every child deserves to arrive at school and return home safely, and that starts with each of us making responsible decisions behind the wheel.”
The department’s driving guidance includes giving students extra room, never blocking crosswalks, following school crossing guards’ directions, watching for children on bicycles and knowing the laws around school buses. Under Texas law, drivers must stop for a school bus displaying alternating flashing red signals and may proceed only when the lights stop, the driver signals them on or the bus resumes moving, the agency said. Drivers who illegally pass a school bus face fines of up to $1,250 for a first offense, possible license suspension of up to six months for repeat convictions and criminal charges if they cause serious bodily injury. DPS also reminded Texans that texting while driving is illegal statewide.
Beyond the roadways, the agency encouraged parents to keep school emergency contact information current, keep an up-to-date photo of their child on their phone, talk with children about emergency drills and situational awareness, and make sure students know which adults at school they can turn to for help.
The release also pointed Texans to several safety resources: the iWatchTexas program, which takes confidential reports of suspicious activity by app, website or phone at 844-643-2251; the Texas School Safety Center at Texas State University, which offers training and technical assistance to districts; and the state’s Active Shooter Alert System, which notifies people near an active shooter situation through cell phones, broadcast media and highway message signs. DPS Safety Education officers are also available to present safety programs at schools, the agency noted.
DPS emphasized that iWatchTexas is not for emergencies — anyone facing an emergency on a campus or in a community should call 911. By using the available resources, the department said, Texans can work together to keep schools safe this year.