Back to School Reminder: Stop for School Buses

As students return to class, Strathcona County is reminding drivers to be extra cautious around school buses. The number of school bus “fly-bys”—when a vehicle passes a stopped bus with flashing red lights—continues to be a safety concern.

Flashing red lights mean children are boarding or exiting the bus, and drivers are legally required to stop. Failing to do so not only risks lives but can result in a $567 fine and six demerit points. Enforcement Services has issued several tickets for this offence.

Elk Island Public Schools and Elk Island Catholic Schools continue to work closely with Strathcona County RCMP and Enforcement Services to address the issue and ensure students get to and from school safely.

“Passing a school bus with flashing lights and an extended stop sign is not just illegal—it may result in the loss of a child’s life,” says Lisa-Marie Weder, Director of Student Transportation at Elk Island Public Schools. “While the fine and demerits serve as a warning, our focus is on education. A child’s life is far too precious to risk for a moment of impatience.”

“Student safety is paramount, and our drivers are trained and committed to protecting students,” says Mike Hayden, Student Transportation Director for Elk Island Catholic Schools. “But it’s also a community responsibility. Driving past a stopped school bus is a lapse in judgment that can have lifelong consequences.”

Many school buses are now equipped with cameras that record violations. These videos are shared with law enforcement, allowing Community Peace Officers to issue tickets. Even without video, bus drivers can report incidents, which are compiled and investigated by RCMP and Enforcement Services.

Enforcement Services would like drivers to remember that when the red lights are flashing, it’s time to stop.

Residents can report school bus fly-bys 24/7 by calling Strathcona County Enforcement Services at 780-467-7741.

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