| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Contact: Nicole Livas |
| Date: 03/06/25 | Phone: 757.263.1075 |
| News Release No. 010 | Fax: 757.263.1010 |
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Virginia Beach City Public Schools launches enhanced school bus safety program |
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In a proactive effort to combat reckless driving behavior around school buses, Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) has partnered with the Virginia Beach Police Department and BusPatrol to launch an enhanced school bus safety enforcement program to tackle the pervasive issue of illegal school bus passings and protect students. On March 10, the initial phase of implementation will begin with 150 buses fully equipped to issue citations using new safety technology. All buses will be equipped by the end of April. The program includes stop-arm cameras powered by artificial intelligence (AI) to detect when drivers fail to stop for a school bus loading or unloading students. The evidence is shared with the Virginia Beach Police Department for review before a notice of violation is sent to the registered vehicle owner. “Student safety is our highest priority,” said VBCPS Superintendent Dr. Donald Robertson Jr. “The school bus is an extension of our school grounds, and we will do everything we can to protect our children—both inside and outside the classroom. This program is a huge step forward in ensuring students get to and from school without incident.” As stated by Virginia DMV, vehicles traveling in both directions must stop for a school bus when its red lights are flashing and its stop sign is extended, or whenever the bus is loading or unloading students. Only vehicles traveling in the opposite direction of a road divided by a median or barrier may proceed with caution. “Failing to stop for a stopped school bus is a serious offense, and it happens far too often,” said James Lash, executive director of Transportation and Fleet Management Services. “With cameras now on every school bus, we are strengthening enforcement and sending a clear message: Drivers who recklessly pass stopped school buses will be held accountable.” For more information, please visit vbschools.com. |
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