| | JAN - FEB 202619EUROPEEUROPETECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS THAT DRIVE EDUCATION SECTORCXO INSIGHTSBy Keba Baldwin, Director of Transportation and Central Garage, Prince George's County Public SchoolsThrough this article, Baldwin delves into how school bus safety is achieved through a layered, system-wide approach, highlighting the evolving technologies and human factors that collectively ensure students are transported securely and responsibly every day. Every day, school buses transport millions of students across the country, making safety a top priority for school systems, manufacturers, drivers and families alike. While school buses are widely recognized as one of the safest forms of transportation, maintaining and improving that safety requires a comprehensive approach. This article explores four key dimensions of school bus safety: the structural and technological features built into the bus itself; the training, tools and safeguards designed to support drivers; the measures in place to protect students on board; and the strategies used to manage traffic safety around school buses. By examining each of these categories, we can better understand how modern safety practices come together to create a secure and reliable transportation experience for students. 1. Built-In Bus Safety Features Modern school buses are designed with a range of built-in safety features that prioritize the protection of students and drivers. Electronic stability control (ESC) helps maintain vehicle control in slippery conditions, significantly reducing the risk of rollovers. Advanced collision mitigation systems use radar technology to detect obstacles and automatically apply brakes to avoid or lessen the severity of crashes. High-intensity LED lighting, including headlights and stop arms, increases visibility in low-light and inclement weather. Structurally, buses are built with reinforced safety cages, one-piece roof bows, and crash-tested seating systems that include three-point lap-shoulder belts for all passengers. Additional technologies like 360-degree camera views and telematics systems provide real-time data on vehicle performance, driver behavior and safety compliance. Together, these components reflect a comprehensive approach to school bus safety--designed to prevent accidents, protect occupants and support drivers in delivering safe, reliable transportation every day. 2. Supporting the School Bus Driver School bus safety extends beyond equipment--it depends heavily on the capabilities and support systems available to the driver. Modern buses are equipped with a variety of tools that help drivers operate safely and respond effectively to potential hazards. Digital instrument clusters and ergonomic control layouts improve driver comfort and visibility, reducing distraction and fatigue. Camera systems, including forward-Keba Baldwin serves as the Director of Transportation and Central Garage for PGCPS, one of the largest and most complex school transportation systems in the nation. In this role, he oversees the daily operations of 1,260 school buses and manages a fleet of 719 additional district vehicles. Under his leadership, PGCPS provides transportation for more than 85,000 students attending over 200 schools across the county and beyond. Baldwin brings more than two decades of experience in public education, beginning his career as a teacher and athletic director in Durham, North Carolina. Baldwin is deeply passionate about ensuring safe, reliable and nurturing transportation experiences that support timely arrivals and equitable access to education for all students in Prince George's County.PROTECTING PRECIOUS CARGO: A COMPREHENSIVE LOOK AT SCHOOL BUS SAFETY Student education remains a critical layer of safety, emphasizing safe boarding, exiting, proper seating and emergency response. In some districts, technology is used to track student ridership, adding an additional level of oversight.SCHOOL BUS SAFET Y
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