Division News

Division News

School Bus Safety Week - October 21-25, 2024

Posted on October 22

In recognition of School Bus Safety Week, the Northland School Division (NSD) is helping to educate the families we serve on school bus safety October 21-25, 2024. This year's theme is Bus Rule – Be Clever, Dress for the Weather.

Reminder to Download the Bus Status App!

Northland School Division families can now enjoy a faster and more reliable experience with the latest version of the Bus Status app – Bus Status 4. If you haven’t done so already, please download Bus Status 4 from the App Store or Play Store and set your preferences. It offers the same functionality as before but with improved speed and reliability. Click here for instructions on how to download Bus Status 4. The Bus Status App works alongside the Bus Status available on the NSD website www.nsd61.ca/departments/transportation/bus-status

Important Messages about School Bus Safety

Did you know? 

When a bus turns on RED flashing lights this means STOP in both directions (Including off-road vehicles in the ditch). NEVER pass a school bus with red flashing lights. The fine for passing a school bus with its red lights flashing is $543 and six demerit points.

Did you know? 

When a bus turns on YELLOW flashing lights this means it is preparing to stop. Slow down and get ready to stop.

Did you know?

Students should be waiting at the bus stop 3-5 minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.  The school bus runs on a strict schedule and by being ready, the bus is able to be on time for all of the following stops. 

Did you know?

Parents are responsible for the safety of their children to and from the bus stop. Accompany small children to the bus stop, ensure they are adequately dressed and stand quietly in a group while waiting for the bus.

Did you know? 

Drivers are required to do a DAILY pre-trip inspection to ensure all bus components are working properly and a post-trip inspection to check for sleeping children.

Did you know?

Research consistently shows that school buses are the safest way for a child to travel. A study by Transport Canada found riding a bus to school is 16 times safer than riding in a passenger vehicle. Fewer parents driving their children decreases congestion around schools and makes the school safer for everyone. 

Join our School Bus Transportation Team! 

Join our School Bus Transportation team! Click here to learn more. 

Poster Contest

The Alberta Student Transportation Advisory Council (ASTAC) is sponsoring a provincial poster contest to promote School Bus Safety Week. The contest is open to students in Kindergarten to Grade 6. The deadline is October 31, 2024. Click here to learn more!