MADISON – School bus drivers are the first school employee student-riders see each day and often the last. Their daily encounters with children can have a huge impact on student attitudes about themselves and about school in general.

Bus drivers are also responsible for student safety going to and from school and on field trips. It is a huge responsibility and a job MCS leaders say they do not take for granted.

Madison City Schools kicked off National School Bus Safety Week today with a coffee and biscuit gathering with MCS leaders, along with Madison police and fire officials.

“They discussed safety protocols including tougher laws against motorists blowing past buses when they are loading or unloading, trespassing on buses, fire and medical protocols and more,” said MCS spokesman John Peck.

He said Madison City Schools transports over 5,500 students daily to schools over 86 routes.

“MCS is grateful to the police and fire departments for the City of Madison for supporting us,” Peck said.