As students across Talbot County return to school on Monday, Aug. 25, Talbot County Public Schools, Talbot Thrive and the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office are reminding drivers to stay alert, obey traffic laws, and prioritize safety around school zones and buses. With increased foot, bicycle, and bus traffic, residents are urged to plan extra time and use caution on the roads.
“We are thrilled to welcome students back to our classrooms and school communities,” said Dr. Sharon Pepukayi, Superintendent of Talbot County Public Schools. “As we start a new school year, it’s essential that drivers across the county remain alert, reduce speeds in school zones, and give school buses and crossing students the right-of-way. Together, we can create a safe environment where every student feels secure on their way to and from school.”
Law Enforcement Focused on School Zone Safety
The Talbot County Sheriff’s Office and law enforcement in Easton and St. Michael’s will increase patrols in school zones, focusing on violations such as speeding, distracted driving, and illegal school bus passing. Officers remind drivers that ignoring school zone and bus safety laws not only puts children at risk—but also carries serious penalties.
“Our top priority is the safety of Talbot County’s children,” said Sheriff Joe Gamble. “We’ll be out enforcing traffic laws and making sure that drivers understand their responsibilities when it comes to school bus stops and pedestrian safety. Slow down, stay alert, and help us protect our students.”
Know the School Bus Safety Laws
Maryland law requires:
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Stopping at least 20 feet away from a school bus when its stop arm is extended and red lights are flashing.
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Not passing the bus from any direction while it’s stopped unless the roadway is divided by a physical median.
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Waiting until the stop arm is retracted and lights are off before proceeding.
Violations carry:
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For bus violations, a fine of up to $570 and 3 points on a driver’s license if cited by law enforcement.
Speeding in a School Zone
Speeding in a school zone can carry fines of $40 per offense for those captured by speed cameras.
“Keeping our children safe on the way to and from school takes all of us,” said Brian LeCates, Director of Talbot County Emergency Services. “When drivers pay attention in school zones and at bus stops, it helps prevent emergencies before they happen. Together as a community, we can make sure every student starts and ends their day safely.”
Talbot Thrive’s Rolling Rodeo: Teaching Safety Skills
This fall, Talbot Thrive, a local organization dedicated to safer roads for all users, will launch their 2025-2026 Rolling Rodeo Program—a hands-on bicycle and pedestrian safety program designed to teach children how to safely ride and walk in their neighborhoods. The program includes helmet fittings, road safety education, and obstacle courses for young cyclists.
The first Rolling Rodeo will take place on Saturday, October 19, at Easton Elementary School, in conjunction with the Talbot County Resource Fair.
“We want every child in Talbot County to walk and ride to school safely and confidently,” said Heather Grant, Executive Director of Talbot Thrive. “That means knowing how to obey traffic signs and signals, watching for cars, and always wearing a helmet when biking. The Rolling Rodeo is a fun, interactive way to help students build those essential safety skills.”
Stay Informed
Families are encouraged to attend the October 19 event to learn more about bicycle and pedestrian safety and to access free educational resources.
For updates, visit TalbotThrive.org/RollingRodeo, Talbot County Public Schools at https://www.tcps.k12.md.us/ and the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office at https://talbotsheriff.org .
Download the PDF MDOT Brochure on Bus Safety
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