Director of Transportation Jay Rosapepe announced that South Kitsap School District will participate in the national and state recognized School Bus Safety Week on Oct. 20-25.

Rosapepe said, during the week, drivers are reminded to be extra cautious while sharing the road with school buses and students.

“Students are to remember that drivers may not be able to see them especially in low-light conditions,” he said.

According to Rosapepe, each day South Kitsap School District buses provide more than 10,000 student rides covering more than 7,000 miles.

“The goal of SKSD is to get all of these children to and from school safely,” Rosapepe said. “In fact, research proves that school bus transportation is the safest form of ground transportation and eight times safer than riding in a family vehicle.”

He said drivers should be reminded to be aware of bus stops and slow down as you approach them.

“Remember that children often react differently than adults in traffic situations. They act impulsively, can be preoccupied, and act spontaneously,” said Rosapepe. “They may not be aware that their physical size limits their ability to be seen.”

He said some safety ideas for students are:

• If it is dark, dusk, or dawn, wear light colors or reflective tags on clothing or backpack.

• Carry a flashlight and walk in groups.

• Remember to stand on the side of the road — as far back as possible.

• Whenever crossing streets remember to: Stop, Listen, then Look – left, right and left again before crossing.

• When there is no sidewalk or walkway, always walk facing traffic.

• Don’t get too close to the road.

• Never push or shove near the road.

For more information, call 360-874-7093.