In recognition of National School Bus Safety Week from October 19-23, Franklin County Schools (FCS) is reminding parents, students, and local motorists to prioritize transportation safety and to follow Kentucky’s updated bus law that was put into effect this year.
Under new state legislation, motorists traveling in both directions on any undivided roadway, regardless of the number of lanes, are legally required to come to a complete stop when a school bus has its stop arm extended and red warning lights flashing. Drivers must remain stopped until all warning signals are turned off. The only exception to this rule is if you are traveling in the opposite direction on a road with four or more lanes that is physically separated by an elevated barrier or an unpaved median.
FCS is reminding parents to review basic safety protocols with their children before approaching the bus stop. Top safety measures include staying at least 10 feet away, which is equivalent to five big steps, from the bus in the driver’s "Danger Zone," arriving at stops five minutes before scheduled pickup, and never running toward or after a moving bus. Students should always cross in front of the bus after making eye contact with the driver and wear bright or reflective clothing during darker fall and winter mornings.
To enhance daily security, Franklin County Public Schools monitors its fleet using onboard GPS, digital cameras, two-way radios, and advanced routing software. Families can also monitor their children's transportation in real time through the district's Stopfinder smartphone application, which delivers live location tracking, route details, and instant delay notifications.
“Student safety is our top priority every day. Our transportation team operates 51 bus routes that travel more than 3,900 miles each school day,” said Brad McKinney, Director of Transportation. “Keeping our students safe requires everyone in our community to do their part. When approaching a school bus, drivers must slow down, remain alert, and stop whenever the red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended. One moment of inattention can have life-changing consequences. We urge every motorist to stay focused, obey school bus safety laws, and remember that protecting our children is a responsibility we all share.”
FCS is currently hiring bus drivers, and applications can be submitted on the district’s hiring website. FCS serves approximately 212 square miles across Franklin County.
For more details about district transportation, the Stopfinder app, or contact information, visit the FCS website.
About Franklin County Schools
FCS is committed to providing high-quality education to students in Franklin County, Ky. For more information and news about FCS, visit our website and follow us on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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