Spencer, IA (KICD)– With the new academic year upon us, school buses from around the area will once again be hitting the streets which has local officials reminding drivers of some of the important rules of the road.

Melissa Merida is the Transportation Director for Spencer Community Schools. She says it is important to remember that stopping for a school bus with flashing lights activated and stop arm out is not a recommendation but a requirement.

Merida says Spencer Community Schools does its best to keep kids from having to cross the street at bus stops, but sometimes it is unavoidable.

Even those driving on a divided highway similar to part of Grand Avenue in Spencer should be on the lookout.

Those caught failing to follow these traffic rules face a minimum fine of $250 dollars along with possible driver’s license suspension and increased insurance premiums.