PIERRE, S.D. — The South Dakota Highway Patrol will conduct a three day School Bus Safety Outreach event September 8–10 to increase public awareness and reinforce safe driving behaviors around school buses statewide.
During the outreach period, troopers will partner with school districts to observe bus routes, monitor loading zones, and ensure motorists follow state school bus stopping laws. Patrol vehicles will be visible near school bus stops, loading areas, and along hightraffic routes where children board and exit buses.
The Highway Patrol’s goal is to remind drivers of safety requirements, reduce dangerous driving behavior, and help protect South Dakota students as they travel to and from school.
“School bus safety is a shared responsibility,” said Captain Jon Stahl. “Our presence during these three days is meant to educate drivers, support school districts, and reinforce that stopping for school buses isn’t optional— it’s essential for protecting children.”
Troopers will take part in several activities including:
• Following select school buses along their routes to observe motorist behavior
• Positioning marked patrol vehicles near loading zones to increase visibility
• Conducting targeted safety operations to identify violations and encourage compliance; and
• Providing safety reminders and information to community members and media
The Highway Patrol encourages all motorists to remain alert, slow down near school buses, and always stop when red bus lights are flashing. Small actions behind the wheel can prevent tragic outcomes. South Dakota Highway Patrol troopers are available for interviews to discuss details of the event and share important information on bus safety.
The Highway Patrol is an agency of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.
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