Putnam County Sheriff's Office stresses bus safety as students return to school

Monday, January 5, 2026 at 4:26 PM

By Staff report

The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office welcomes all students, and school staff back as classes resume following the Christmas break.

As school buses return to their morning and afternoon routes, the Sheriff’s Office reminds all motorists to make safety their top priority. School bus safety is non-negotiable. Drivers must remain alert, reduce speeds in school zones, and be prepared to stop when buses are loading or unloading children.

With winter weather conditions possible, drivers should allow extra travel time, maintain safe following distances, and use caution on snow- or ice-covered roads. Parents are encouraged to ensure their children are dressed appropriately for cold temperatures and are at their bus stops early to avoid rushing.

Sheriff’s deputies will be increasing their presence in and around school zones and bus routes over the coming days to help ensure a safe return to school. The department will maintain a zero-tolerance policy for school bus stop-arm violations. Passing a stopped school bus endangers children and will result in immediate enforcement action.

“We want every child in Putnam County to travel to and from school safely,” the Sheriff’s Office is asking every driver to: “Please do your part—slow down, stay alert, and protect our students.” Sheriff Jerrod Baugh

For questions or more information, please contact the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.