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Michael Dallessandro, supervisor of transportation at Niagara-Wheatfield School District, joined area law enforcement representatives at AAA headquarters in Williamsville recently to remind the public about staying vigilant on the roads now that schools are open.
Law enforcement officials said that students get excited and don't pay attention when they are walking or waiting at a bus stop, and with the number of drivers distracted with technology and their commute they want to avoid any accidents.
Dallessandro talked about school bus safety. "Please leave yourself more time and watch for students at bus stops or walking to and from school," he asked motorists. "Kids are wearing more dark colors and listening to iPods and just not paying attention. Buses are stopping to load or unload children so I ask that you please focus on driving and not texting or playing with your iPad."
He also encouraged parents to let their children take the bus and not drive them. "The yellow bus is one of the safest forms of transportation in the world. This can reduce traffic congestion at school zones. We can transport 65 kids in one vehicle versus 65 parent cars bringing 65 kids to school. We all want this to be a safe and wonderful school year for everyone."
Shown, from left, are N-W bus driver Leslie Buczkowski, Michael Dallessandro and N-W transportation assistant Becky Irr.