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October 21.2025
3 Minutes Read

Here's Why National School Bus Safety Week Matters: Secure Stops & Stronger Communities!

San Bernardino Police badge press release for National School Bus Safety Week 2025.

National School Bus Safety Week: October 20-24, 2025

As we approach National School Bus Safety Week on October 20-24, 2025, communities across the United States are called to unite under the inspiring theme: Safe Stops. Stronger Communities. This initiative serves as a vital reminder of the shared responsibility we hold—ensuring the safety of our children as they travel to and from school. School buses, known as the safest transportation for kids, need our vigilance both on and off the roads.

What’s at Stake?

Each year, millions rely on school buses to safely transport students. Unfortunately, the data is alarming, revealing that over 39 million illegal stop-arm violations happen annually. Each of these represents a moment where a child’s safety is jeopardized. Despite a 13% reduction in violations observed recently, the fight against unsafe road behaviors is far from over.

Why Community Support is Crucial

Government bodies and citizens alike are key players in fostering an environment where safety isn’t just the responsibility of bus drivers but shared by all. With each flashing red light and extended stop-arm, drivers must halt and recognize that stopping is a simple yet powerful action that can save lives. As Melissa Wandall, President of the National Coalition for Safer Roads states, "Every stop is a chance to protect their journey. When we choose safety and choose caution, we honor this year’s theme. Together, we can drive down insatiable heartache on our roadways and build safer communities for every child."

Community Actions to Take

National School Bus Safety Week encourages local engagement through various community activities:

  • Safety Drills: Schools should conduct safety drills to prepare students for emergency situations and reinforce proper bus behavior.
  • Public Awareness Campaigns: Utilize social media and traditional media to promote awareness about the importance of school bus safety and the law regarding stop-arms.
  • Driver Engagement: Celebrate school bus drivers with appreciation events and encourage community members to recognize the crucial role they play in students' safety.
  • Education Programs: Implement programs focused on educating younger students about safe waiting distances from the bus and proper boarding protocols.

Data-Driven Approaches to Increased Safety

The implementation of technology such as stop-arm cameras has shown remarkable results in districts where they have been deployed—reporting reductions up to 68% in violations. This robust data underscores that consistent enforcement paired with education leads to meaningful behavioral changes among drivers, creating a safer program for students.

Final Thoughts: Our Collective Responsibility

As we gear up to celebrate National School Bus Safety Week, let us commit to making our roads safer for children. Every individual can contribute by spreading the word, supporting relevant legislation, and adhering strictly to safety regulations. Let this initiative remind us all of our role in building safer communities—because together, through awareness, we can indeed save lives.

Spread the Message

Consider sharing graphics and stories related to national school bus safety on social media to foster greater awareness. Let’s create an environment where safety is paramount, ensuring children reach their schools safely, every day of the year!

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02.15.2026

Experience the Joy of the Lunar New Year Celebration in San Bernardino!

Update Join San Bernardino in Celebrating the Lunar New Year! The City of San Bernardino invites everyone to come together on February 21, 2026, to celebrate the vibrant traditions of the Lunar New Year! Marking the third annual Lunar New Year Celebration, the festivities will take place at the downtown Court Street Square from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. This year celebrates the Year of the Horse, a symbol of speed, independence, and vibrance, and is particularly special as it is the Fire Horse year—a phenomenon that occurs only once every 60 years. A Day Filled with Culture and Joy Organized by the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department, this free family event guarantees a day of exciting cultural activities, performances, and community engagement. Families can look forward to a variety of events including: Cultural Performances: Spectators will be mesmerized by traditional dragon dances, Taiko drumming, and performances by local talents. Arts and Crafts: Young ones can unleash their creativity by making paper lanterns and dragon puppets. Delicious Food: More than 40 food vendors will serve up traditional delicacies and other culinary delights. Interactive Workshops: Hands-on activities such as calligraphy and craft-making will allow attendees to immerse themselves in Lunar New Year traditions. Mayor Helen Tran expressed pride in how the celebration has fostered cultural unity, stating, "Our city’s Lunar New Year Festival has grown into a vibrant tradition that brings people of all backgrounds together to celebrate culture, family, and new beginnings.” The Historical Significance of Lunar New Year Lunar New Year is one of the most significant cultural celebrations among Eastern and Southeast Asian communities. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and promotes themes of renewal, family, and hope. Emphasizing the rich tapestry of Asian cultures, celebrations can last up to fifteen days, offering various cultural rituals, festivities, and family gatherings throughout Asia and within Asian American communities in the U.S. Exciting Features of the Festival This year’s festival will also include: Community Booths: Local organizations and sponsors will have informational booths to connect with attendees. Photo Opportunities: Immersive photo areas will allow families to capture beautiful memories with themed decorations. As San Bernardino transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, lively sounds, and flavors, the community will have the chance to celebrate not just an event, but a cultural legacy that stretches across generations. The excitement includes performances from diverse communities, including Filipino dance ensembles and the Indian Springs High School Band, showcasing the city’s unity in diversity. How to Prepare for the Celebration With the festivities approaching, it’s a great opportunity for families to discuss the significance of the Lunar New Year. Engage children in crafting traditional symbols at home, like paper lanterns or dragon ornaments, to foster excitement and understanding about their cultural heritage. Encourage them to wear traditional attire on the day of the event, making the celebration even more memorable. So gather your family and friends, mark the calendar for February 21, and prepare to embrace the culture, richness, and joy that comes with the arrival of the Year of the Horse!

02.11.2026

San Bernardino's Special Meeting Set for February 12: Here's What You Should Know

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