LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- School safety is top of mind for Louisville school districts as students head back to school next week.

Part of that safety effort falls to crossing guards and bus drivers who play a big role in keeping kids safe. Getting kids to and from school each day is a team effort.

James Wilkins, a crossing guard who works four different schools in Jefferson County Public Schools, said he's been on the job more than seven years, and the kids know he's there.

"(One kid) was scared to cross the streets until he saw me," Wilkins said Wednesday. "He always tells his mother when he sees me out there... Momma, I'm going to be safe because James is out there."

"I don't let no kids move until it's safe," he said. "And first thing I need to make sure is that I'm safe. If I'm not safe, I'm not letting none of my kids cross."

It's the dedication of school crossing guards and bus drivers that ensure students make it to and from school safely. Superintendent Brian Yearwood said more than 600 buses will transport more than 40,000 students to JCPS.

Still, the district is looking to fill more than 30 crossing guard positions and wants to hire more bus drivers. Jeffrey Penick, who's been driving a school bus for five years, said some people are in such a hurry they ignore the signs.

"When the big yellow and reds come on, that's an indication that we are getting ready to make a stop," Penick said, showing off his bus. "Probably five six seven times a day, they're in such a hurry they don't think they have to stop."

Speeding, distracted driving and going around the stop arm on a bus can be dangerous.

"I just hope (the students) pay attention to vehicles that are coming at them," Penick said.

Data from AAA shows one-fourth of deadly crashes involving teenagers happen between 3-7 p.m., which is often when students are being released from school or going home from after-school activities.

JCPS is asking drivers to pay attention because it could cost a child his or her life.

"Slow down and put your phones down," Wilkins said.

JCPS Coverage:

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