News Summary
As the new school year for Coffee County Schools approaches, local law enforcement urges drivers to prepare for increased traffic congestion around school zones. With the return of school buses, delays are likely as officers work to direct traffic and ensure safety for students. Motorists are reminded to adhere to school bus safety regulations and remain vigilant in school zones to promote a secure environment for children returning to classes.
Manchester, Tennessee — The new school year for Coffee County Schools begins tomorrow, August 4, 2025, and with that comes a significant increase in traffic, particularly around school zones. Motorists are being advised to prepare for potential delays as school buses will be fully operational, leading to heightened congestion in areas near educational institutions.
Local law enforcement is taking proactive steps to manage the anticipated traffic issues. Officers will be present to direct traffic, creating a safer environment for students and minimizing disruptions. However, it is important for drivers to understand that even with officers in place, the presence of traffic officials may not completely eliminate travel delays. Therefore, it is crucial for motorists to anticipate longer commute times as they navigate through school zones.
School bus safety is a primary concern for the Coffee County School System and local police. To ensure the safety of children, strict regulations are in place regarding how drivers should react to school buses. All drivers must stop for a school bus that has its red lights flashing and its stop arm extended, except in cases where the road is divided by a median. Additionally, vehicles traveling in the same direction as a bus must also stop when the bus is loading or unloading students.
Before a bus makes a stop to load or unload, its yellow lights will flash to alert drivers to exercise caution. This is an indication for motorists to slow down and prepare to stop. Drivers are required to remain stopped until all students have boarded in the morning or have safely cleared at least 12 feet off the roadway in the afternoon.
Motorists are encouraged to follow several safety tips to ensure the wellbeing of school children:
- Stay alert and patient around school bus stops, maintaining vigilance for children.
- Watch for kids walking to and from bus stops, and be prepared to stop.
- Slow down if the yellow flashing lights on the bus are activated.
- Avoid speeding up to beat a school bus; always stop when required.
- Remain stopped until the bus’s stop sign is retracted and its lights are off.
- Stay distraction-free while driving—this includes avoiding phone calls or texting.
- Observe student behavior at bus stops and be ready to act if necessary.
- Obey all traffic laws, particularly reduced speed limits in school zones.
- Do not pass other vehicles in school zones or make U-turns at school crossings.
- Follow the directions given by school crossing guards.
- Drive or park only in authorized areas when picking up or dropping off students.
As the Coffee County Schools community prepares for the new academic year, the collective responsibility of drivers, educators, and law enforcement will play a vital role in ensuring the safety of all students. By adhering to these guidelines and respecting traffic rules, everyone can contribute to a smoother and safer return to school.
For decades, the start of the school year has highlighted the importance of road safety and awareness in school zones. As students return to classrooms, heightened traffic due to school buses presents challenges that require cooperation and attentiveness from all members of the community.
In preparation for the start of classes, Coffee County Schools advocates for a safe environment for both students and drivers alike. With these safety measures and awareness campaigns, the aim is to foster a safer commute for all families during the school year.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hattiesburg Construction Projects Aim to Enhance Traffic Safety and Efficiency
Sacramento County Enhances Safety on Watt Avenue
Goodyear Construction Worker Dies After Trench Accident
Recovery Efforts Initiated for Trapped Construction Worker
Tragic Shooting Incident in Midtown Manhattan
Tragic Accident Claims Life of Construction Worker
Frustrations Rise Among Silver Spring Residents Over Purple Line Construction
Rhode Island Begins Extensive Infrastructure Overhaul
Wilmington City Council Approves Funding for Greenville Loop Trail
How to Maximize Your Home’s Value Before Selling: Essential Tips for Homeowners
Additional Resources
- Douglas Now
- Wikipedia: School Bus
- WTVY
- Google Search: Coffee County Schools
- WGRV
- Google Scholar: School Traffic Safety
- Tullahoma News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Bus Regulations
- WTVY
- Google News: Coffee County Bus Driver Shortage
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
