Posted on 2025-04-30 20:49:55.839 +0000 UTC
HPSD Expands Use of Extended Stop Arms to Increase Bus Safety
High Prairie School Division (HPSD) has taken another proactive step to improve student safety on rural bus routes with the installation of a second Extended Stop Arm (ESA) on a division school bus.
The pilot project began on February 4, 2025, with the installation of the first ESA on a regular route bus. The safety device extends 6.5 feet from the side of the bus and features bright lighting to clearly signal to motorists that the bus is stopped for student loading or unloading.
The route selected for the initial pilot had the highest number of reported fly-by incidents—where drivers illegally pass a stopped school bus. Since the installation of the ESA, that route has had zero fly-by occurrences, highlighting the effectiveness of the new safety measure.
Encouraged by these results, the HPSD Board approved the purchase of a second ESA during its April 15 board meeting. The device has since been installed on Bus 201, which is driven by Cherie Roy and operates on the division’s second most frequently impacted route.
“This project is about prevention and awareness,” said a division spokesperson. “Every step we take to increase visibility and accountability on the road helps protect students as they travel to and from school.”
HPSD continues to urge all drivers to remain alert around school buses, respect posted stop arms, and follow traffic laws. Community awareness and driver cooperation remain essential to keeping students safe.
