Kenton County families heading back to school this month face two changes on the road: a stricter state law governing when drivers must stop for school buses, and afternoon routes that may run later than usual because of a regional bus driver shortage.

The law, which took effect July 15, requires all drivers approaching a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended to stop from either direction on most roads. Previously, drivers on a highway of four or more lanes traveling in the opposite direction were exempt. Now, the only exception is when the two sides of the road are separated by an elevated barrier or an unpaved median. A painted center line or center turn lane no longer qualifies.

Stop and stay stopped. Drivers must remain in place until the bus begins moving and its warning signals are deactivated.

The Kenton County School District, which operates 113 buses carrying more than 10,000 students daily, urged families on July 23 to be aware of the change. Assistant Superintendent Brian Vanover discussed transportation safety tips in a district podcast posted Aug. 19, as the 2026-27 school year began.

The Kentucky Department of Education issued its own reminder on Aug. 7, ahead of the statewide return to classrooms.

Why buses may run later

School districts across the region continue to deal with a shortage of bus drivers, according to WCPO. Fewer drivers mean longer individual routes and buses still on the road later into the afternoon. Boone County Deputy Phil Ridgel warned motorists not to assume a school bus is empty based on the time of day.

In neighboring Boone County, where deputies are paying close attention to bus-zone enforcement as students return, Ridgel said the tighter law is about giving drivers room to do their jobs safely.

"We want to ensure that the bus driver can focus on the children, that there's no danger imposed to them," Ridgel said. "The law is imposed to protect kids."

What Kenton County drivers need to know

• Stop from both directions when a bus has its red lights flashing and stop arm out, unless a physical barrier or unpaved median separates the lanes.
• A center turn lane or painted line is not a barrier. You must still stop.
• Stay stopped until the bus moves and signals are off.
• Don't assume a late-afternoon bus is empty. Driver shortages mean routes run later than in past years.

Families with route questions can reach the KCSD transportation department through the district's main office.