THP Reminds Families That School Safety Is a Year-Round Priority

As students return to classrooms across Tennessee, the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) is reminding families that school safety extends far beyond the first week of class. Troopers are working throughout the year to ensure students are protected both on the road and on school campuses.

Between August 2024 and June 2025, THP conducted over 15,000 school bus inspections statewide, along with more than 1,500 unannounced spot checks. These inspections are aimed at identifying mechanical or safety issues—such as worn tires, faulty lights, or malfunctioning emergency exits—before buses ever begin their routes. Any bus found with a critical issue is removed from service until it passes reinspection. Both county-owned and privately contracted buses are held to the same safety standards.

In addition to bus inspections, troopers closely monitor school zones and enforce laws against illegally passing stopped school buses—a violation that poses a direct risk to children. In 2024 alone, Tennessee saw 576 school bus-related crashes, with 558 occurring in the afternoon, when buses are more likely to be carrying students.

THP also maintains a presence inside schools. Troopers conduct visits—especially in areas with fewer school resource officers—to increase visibility and enhance campus safety. They also work closely with school districts and bus drivers on training and certification, helping ensure drivers are up to date with the latest safety protocols.

Officials say their efforts all come down to one goal: a safe ride to school, a safe place to learn, and a safe ride home.