Back to School Safety in Teller County: What Parents, Students, and Drivers Need to Know

As students across Teller County return to school, our community needs to review safety reminders. Whether you’re a driver, parent, or student, following Colorado’s school safety laws helps protect children and prevent accidents.

Colorado School Zone & Traffic Safety Laws

Speed Limits in School Zones

• In Colorado, the speed limit in designated school zones is generally 20 mph, unless otherwise posted.

• Fines for speeding in school zones are doubled, even if children are not visibly present.

• Learn more from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT).

Stopping for School Buses

• State law requires all drivers traveling in both directions to stop when a school bus has its stop arm extended and red lights flashing.

• The only exception is if you are on a divided highway with a physical barrier.

• Penalties for passing a stopped bus can include fines between $300–$1,000 and six points on your license.

• Details are outlined in Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1903.

Crosswalks and Pedestrian Right of Way

• Colorado law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in all crosswalks, marked or unmarked.

• Failing to yield can result in significant fines and points against your license.

Local Safety in Teller County

With schools back in session in Woodland Park, Divide, Cripple Creek, and surrounding communities, you’ll notice increased school bus traffic and more children walking or biking to school. Some specific reminders for our area:

• Woodland Park School District RE-2 asks parents to review bus stop safety with children. More details are available on the WPSD Transportation Department page.

• Narrow Mountain Roads: Many Teller County school bus routes travel on winding or two-lane roads. Drivers should allow extra space when following buses, especially in rural areas.

• Crossing Guards & Drop-Offs: Obey all directions from crossing guards and school staff during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up. Delays may occur, but safety comes first.

Safety Tips for Parents & Students

Parents:

• Practice safe walking or biking routes with your children.

• Avoid distracted driving in school zones.

• Review safe loading and unloading practices if your child rides the bus.

Students:

• Always use crosswalks and obey crossing guards.

• Wait for the bus to stop completely before approaching.

• Never cross behind the bus—always in front, and only when the driver signals it is safe.

Community Responsibility

Back-to-school season means heavier morning and afternoon traffic around our local schools. By staying alert and following Colorado’s school safety laws, we can help protect students across Teller County and ensure a safe start to the school year.