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School Buses Get Safety Upgrades

School buses transporting students to Region 4 Public Schools received a safety upgrade at the start of the 2022-’23 school year. According to a press release issued by school officials, new exterior cameras were installed on all buses prior to the start of the fall semester.

The cameras, referred to as “stop sign cameras” were installed on the stop sign arm of all 15 buses serving the district. The installation was approved following a unanimous June 2 vote by the school district’s regional Supervision board. Earlier in the spring, the board received reports of a number of drivers failing to stop for school buses with their stop signs extended.

Representatives from bus company First Student attended the board’s April 27 with an update on the transportation for the district. In that presentation, it was noted that there was a serious concern for student safety, and reports of cars failing to comply with the bus’ stop signs were a “weekly occurrence.” Representatives also noted that although cameras are mounted on the inside of district buses, they are unable to capture violator’s license plates.

At the April 27 presentation, First Student suggested that the cost of installing and connecting the cameras would be approximately $6,400. According to minutes from the the June 2 meeting, board members voted to approve the installation, allocating up to $7,400 for the equipment.

“I am pleased that the boards of education supported this measure to increase the safety of all of our students,” Superintendent of Schools Brian White said in a press release.

The cameras were installed during the summer, and bus drivers have been trained in the technology’s use. According to presentation materials provided by First Student, the bus company continues to work with state police for support and assistance in curbing the number of bus-related traffic violations. Minutes from the June 2 meeting, indicate that the tri-town’s resident troopers recommended a multi-pronged approach which encourages “training for drivers and community education” in conjunction with the cameras. The cameras are expected to be a tool officers can utilize to help with enforcement.

“I am very pleased with the partnership between our school system, our local police departments, and our transportation provider who all worked collaboratively to support this effort,” said White.

In Connecticut, failure to stop for a school bus with its stop sign extended can be punishable by a fine of up to $450 for a first offense.