How Fund Members Address Illegal Bus Passing

Some risks facing schools are relatively new and constantly evolving- climate change, cybercrime, legislative mandates. Others are as timeless as the technology glitches and schedule snafus that come with the start of a new school year. Consider illegal bus passing. 

The Scope of the Problem 

It’s illegal to pass a school bus that is stopped with its red lights flashing and stop-arm extended. Violators can be fined up to $1,250 for a first offense, and up to $2,000 and have their license suspended for repeat offenses. Still, 6,700 bus drivers recorded nearly 9,000 illegal passes on a single day in 2024.  

So, what’s driving the problem?  

A national survey by NHTSA found that over 30% of respondents admitted they “didn’t care” about illegally passing a school bus. Others cited being in a hurry, not knowing the law, or being distracted.  

Three Fund members are tackling illegal passing in different, yet equally effective ways. 

Melissa ISD Adapts to Explosive Growth  

Melissa’s booming residential development, small-town vibe, proximity to DFW, and A-rated school district have fueled a 107% population explosion since 2020. But growth brings traffic, making the Melissa ISD transportation team’s job increasingly challenging.  

“Some of our houses used to be on a quiet road, and now it’s a major commuter route.  “We’re trying to find solutions for safer stops that are still near students’ homes,” said Transportation Director Kim Wouters. 

Kim shared how the district prioritizes student safety in the face of growth: 

• Relocating bus stops to safer areas 
• Adjusting pickup times to avoid peak traffic 
• Working with local police to patrol high-risk areas 
• Alerting parents about dangerous stops and encouraging student awareness 

Pampa ISD: Tech-Driven Prevention and Community Outreach 

While illegal passing was once a problem in Pampa ISD, Transportation Director Stuart Smith reports that it’s largely under control thanks to a combination of technology and public education. 

The district installed Stop-Arm cameras on its buses. When a violation occurs: 

1. The driver presses the video event marker and informs the transportation supervisor. 
2. The supervisor retrieves the video and prints still images of the vehicle and license plate. 
3. The images are sent to the police department. 
4. The police lieutenant sends a warning letter to the vehicle’s registered owner. 

Stop-arm cameras and tech-powered safety features are effective tools for tackling illegal passing. But influencing behavior is the gold standard. Pampa ISD launched a public awareness campaign using social media, radio interviews, and local newspaper ads.  

Midland ISD: Education Drives Bus Safety Strategy 

Midland ISD transportation team faces rural and urban challenges when it comes to illegal passing. On one hand, violations are more common in cities. On the other hand, enforcement can be difficult for resource-strapped rural police departments. 

Like their peers in Pampa, Midland ISD invested in stop-arm cameras and partnered with law enforcement to follow up with violators. But Safety Coordinator Feliciano Lombardo cites education and engagement as the cornerstone of the district’s comprehensive bus safety campaign. 

Public 

Awareness campaigns explain the purpose of the law, how and when to stop, and penalties for violations. 

District Staff 

Provide teachers with resources to educate students about bus safety. Examples include activity books, games and bus tours for an enjoyable, interactive experience. 

Parents, Students  

Students are trained to protect themselves by staying in front of the bus. When crossing the street, they must stay at least 10 feet in front of the bus, maintain eye contact with the driver, and cross only when the driver gives the okay. 

Midland ISD encourages parents to reinforce student training at home. Feliciano adds that the district shares information with parents about their obligations as motorists and the opportunity to express concerns and offer suggestions.  

Different Challenges, Shared Commitment 

Melissa ISD, Pampa ISD, and Midland ISD differ in size and setting, but they share a deep commitment to student safety. Whether adapting to growth, leveraging technology, or promoting education and awareness, their efforts underscore the value of local solutions to a nationwide issue. 
 
As more Texas communities face similar challenges, these Fund members offer a roadmap for how to respond—with creativity, collaboration, and a focus on what matters most: keeping kids safe.