Dear Dallas School District Community,

As we settle into the school year, we want to take a moment to remind everyone about the importance of school bus and traffic safety. Our students’ safety is a shared responsibility, and your attention to a few key rules can help prevent accidents and save lives.

School Bus Safety

Please be alert and follow the law when driving near school buses:

• Yellow flashing lights on a school bus mean slow down — the bus is preparing to stop. Be ready to stop and watch for children who may be approaching the bus.

• Red flashing lights and an extended stop arm mean STOP in both directions (unless you’re on a divided highway). Do not proceed until the lights stop flashing and the stop arm is withdrawn.

• Never pass a school bus that is loading or unloading children — it’s illegal and extremely dangerous.

School Zone and Campus Traffic Safety

Whether you’re dropping off a student, commuting through a neighborhood, or walking near a school, please remember:

• Obey the 15 mph speed limit in all school zones, including roads surrounding campus.

• Use only marked crosswalks near bus stops and on school grounds. Encourage students to do the same.

• Be alert for children crossing the street, especially during morning and afternoon pick-up times.

• Avoid distractions while driving — put down your phone and stay focused on the road.

Be Mindful of Student Drivers

Many of our high school students are new drivers and are still gaining experience behind the wheel. During peak traffic times — 7:30–8:00 AM and 3:00–3:30 PM — please be especially cautious:

• Allow extra space around student drivers and avoid tailgating.

• Be patient — some may drive more cautiously as they learn.

• Use turn signals and follow traffic rules to help create a safe environment for all drivers.

• Expect delays during these times and plan accordingly to avoid rushing through school zones.

Your cooperation helps create a supportive and safe space for our student drivers as they build confidence on the road.

Pedestrian Safety

• Talk to your children about looking both ways before crossing and making eye contact with drivers.

• Ensure your child knows to wait for the bus to come to a complete stop and for the driver to signal before crossing the road.

We thank you for your continued cooperation in making safety a priority. With your help, we can ensure every student travels to and from school safely each day.

Thank you.