As we approach the start of another school year, and throughout the summer months, Pittsfield Public Schools asks all drivers to remain alert, patient, and mindful of students traveling on school buses and vans.
In Massachusetts, drivers traveling in both directions must stop when a school transportation vehicle is stopped to pick up or drop off students. The only exception is when the vehicle is on the opposite side of a divided highway with a physical barrier separating the travel lanes.
Yellow school buses are equipped with flashing red lights and stop signs that extend from the driver’s side. Other school transportation vehicles, including 7D vans, are identified by flashing red lights and “SCHOOL BUS” signs displayed on the roof. They may not be a traditional yellow bus, but rules of the road must still be followed.
🔴 If a school bus has flashing red lights and an extended stop sign, you must stop
🔴 If a school van has flashing red lights, you must stop.
This applies regardless of which direction you are traveling. Drivers must remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing.
Please be patient as students enter and exit school transportation vehicles. Students riding in school vans may have different abilities and transportation needs and may require additional time and assistance.
Please see the attached photos for examples of transportation vehicles you may see on the road.
Thank you for helping us keep all Pittsfield Public School District students safe as they travel to and from school!
