DCPS school bus operators increasing safety awareness and reviewing procedures at railroad crossings after recent incidents

Jacksonville — Following a train vs. school bus crash we told you about Thursday, Duval County Public Schools says the operating company of the bus involved, Student Transportation of America, will be reviewing and re-emphasizeing safety at their upcoming monthly safety meeting in October. A spokesperson for DCPS says the district's other school bus operators, Durham School Services and First Student, will also review safety procedures at railroad crossings and re-emphasize railroad crossing safety and at their upcoming safety meetings.

As the operators review safety procedures, DCPS says the district teaches drivers how to properly cross train tracks until the entire bus is cleared from the tracks. DCPS says bus drivers are also trained on railroad procedures when they are hired and when they are re-certified every year.

In addition to reviewing and renewing safety protocols, DCPS says all operators will request a safety presentation from Operation Lifesaver at one of their future meetings. The district says that organization is a non-profit safety education and awareness organization.

Meanwhile, DCPS says they are asking all drivers who come in contact with school buses on their daily drive to use caution and follow safety measures, so that all students can get home safely.