To the editor:

February is Love the Bus month. The annual campaign by the American School Bus Council aims to recognize school bus drivers and monitors across the country for their dedication to provide safe student transportation every school day. 

At First Student, we want to take this opportunity to thank our drivers and monitors for their commitment to the students in their care. They have the ever-important job of protecting children. 

Riding a school bus remains the safest way for students to get to and from school. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, school buses are approximately 70 times safer than passenger cars and 10 times safer than walking. 

Our school bus drivers understand the essential role they play in the school day. We also recognize the tremendous responsibility placed upon us to provide safe and reliable transportation. Our hiring, training and ongoing development programs help deliver a ride that is twice as safe as the industry average.

Everyone in the community plays a crucial role in helping students travel to and from school safely. You can help by avoiding distractions such as talking on a cell phone or texting, remaining alert while driving near school buses, and heeding their safety signals. 

Student safety is at the heart of everything we do. It is our privilege to serve so many families in our community, and we thank you for your continued support and your love of the school bus. 

Donna Medeiros

Location manager, First Student 

Portsmouth