DPS welcoming students back to school by giving their parents homework
Sept. 6, 2022
It's that time of year again. Pencils are sharpened, lunches are packed and school buses are hitting the streets. While students are getting their first homework assignments, here at Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS), we've got some homework for their parents.
Keeping students safe doesn't begin when they walk through the school's front door. It starts at home, then continues as they hop in the car for the ride to school or walk across the street to the bus stop. We're asking parents to talk to their kids about traffic safety and know what they can do to keep other people's kids safe.
Motorists should know:
They must stop at least 20 feet from a school bus that is displaying red flashing lights and an extended stop arm when approaching from the rear and from the opposite direction on undivided roads.
They should slow down, pay attention and anticipate school children and buses, especially in neighborhoods and school zones.
The best way to be aware of your surroundings at all times is to put the distractions away.
Parents, tell your students:
When getting off a bus, look to be sure no cars are passing on the shoulder.
Wait for the bus driver to signal that it's safe to cross.
When crossing the street to get on the bus or to go home, make eye contact with motorists before proceeding.
Once students get to school, it's important they
remember the advice of DPS Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director Joe Kelly: “See something, say something."
“Whether you're an adult or children at school if you see something that doesn't look right, or dangerous, say something," Kelly said. “Don't hesitate and don't leave it for someone else to report. We all need to take responsibility for keeping our communities, schools, children and each other safe."
For example, students should know that it's suspicious to take photos of their school's doors or leave a package unattended. If they see something, they need to tell a trusted adult or call 911. Do not wait for someone else to say something. An immediate call to law enforcement could be the one that makes the difference.
That goes for online, as well as at school. Even if you're not sure what you saw, it's better to report it and be wrong, then keep it to yourself and have tragedy strike.
Parents can download the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension's tip app,
See It Say It Send It, to report any potential threats to school facilities, as well as report the threats to their local police department.
Being truly prepared means families should also take time to think about school safety concerns, whether your children attend pre-Kindergarten or are in their last year of college. Don't get caught off guard wondering how your family would respond in an emergency.
