The New York School Bus Contractors Association (NYSBCA) is proud to join the New York Association for Pupil Transportation (NYAPT) for Operation Safe Stop on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the Fuller Road Firehouse, 1342 Central Avenue, Colonie, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

This annual event promotes school bus safety and raises public awareness about the dangers of illegally passing stopped school buses with flashing red lights. NYSBCA members are encouraged to attend and show their support.

“Operation Safe Stop is an important part of School Bus Safety Week, reminding every motorist to stop for flashing red lights and protect our students,” said Thomas W. Smith, President of the New York School Bus Contractors Association. “Student safety is our top priority, and by partnering with NYAPT, we’re urging all drivers to stay alert and do their part. Together, we can prevent tragedies and keep our children safe.”

Operation Safe Stop is a cooperative educational and enforcement effort supported by NYAPT, the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, the New York State Education Department, NYSBCA, the New York State Bus Distributors Association, the student transportation industry, and law enforcement agencies across the state.

The illegal passing of stopped school buses remains a serious concern, as evidenced by stop-arm camera data and state and national surveys. Each incident endangers children as they board or exit the bus—reminding us that vigilance and education are key.

Every day, 2.3 million children in New York State are transported safely by highly trained, professional school bus drivers in vehicles maintained to the highest safety standards. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), students are 70 times safer riding a school bus to school than traveling by car.

Learn more about school bus safety at www.nhtsa.gov.