MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) – Students are returning from summer vacation and the iconic big yellow buses will soon be a familiar sight in every neighborhood.

Palmer Bus Service operates over 700 buses in 28 school districts across Minnesota and said they make sure everyone is aware of the rules and safety from the start of the school year.

“We go over the bus rules, explain to them what is expected of them as passengers and what they can do to respect the other children around them. They are not loud, we don’t want garbage on the floor, no eating on the bus. We go over these rules from the beginning,” said Tim Wendlandt, Maple River bus driver.

It is important for drivers who encounter buses on the road to be aware of the buses and their activities.

Once a bus is stopped and the handrail is extended, passing or driving around the bus is a violation punishable by a fine of at least $500.

Buses are equipped with cameras on the sides to catch traffic offenders. Bus drivers explained that the flashing lights and extended signs are for everyone’s safety: the safety of the bus, the safety of the vehicles and, most importantly, the safety of the students.

“There is a dangerous situation. We have to slow down to pick up or drop off students, and that’s why we have to stop. It’s not about driving on yellow, it’s about slowing down and stopping because the stop arm is extended,” Wendlandt said.

Palmer said there has been a shortage of bus drivers since the COVID pandemic and they are constantly looking for more drivers, but also said things are looking good for the start of the new school year.

“We are seeing more and more drivers. By the start of the school year, all of our schools will have their spots filled, which is a great accomplishment,” said Kathy Anderson of Palmer Bus Service.

Click here to download the KEYC News Now app or our KEYC First Alert weather app.

All rights reserved.