Dutchess County Leaders Urge Respect and Kindness as New School Year Begins
County Executive, Sheriff: Compassion counts in the classroom and on the roads - Motorists Reminded to Obey Traffic Laws relating to Stopped School Buses

As students across Dutchess County prepare to return to school next week, County Executive Sue Serino and Sheriff Kirk Imperati encourage residents to prioritize kindness, respect and safety – both in the classroom and on the roads – so students have a productive school year. The County Executive and Sheriff urge parents, educators, fellow students and motorists to take proactive steps to ensure a safe environment for Dutchess County’s children, inside and outside the school building.

County Executive Serino said, “Starting the school year with kindness and respect sets the tone for a positive and supportive environment where every student can do their best. When we treat each other with empathy and understanding, we create a school community where everyone feels valued, safe and ready to learn. Let's make this year a great one by leading with compassion and consideration in all we do!”

Respect is essential for a thriving school community. As the new school year begins, fostering respect sets the stage for a year of learning, growth and positive experiences for all involved – students, parents, educators, administrators and staff. By committing to respect one another, students and teachers alike contribute to a school environment where everyone can feel valued and succeed.

Sheriff Imperati urged motorists to extend similar courtesy of respect to those with whom they share the road.  As school resumes, it is never more important for drivers to slow down and pay attention, particularly before and after the school day.

Sheriff Imperati said, “With more children walking, biking and being dropped off at schools, it’s crucial that drivers stay vigilant and adhere to all traffic laws. Speeding puts lives at risk, and I ask everyone to slow down in school zones, be mindful of crossing guards and never pass a school bus that is stopped to pick up or drop off children. Students’ safety is a shared responsibility, one in which we all play a role.”

Motorists are urged to leave extra time in their commute to safely stop for school buses with red flashing lights, or face being ticketed and fined for illegally passing.  Dutchess County’s school bus safety program, a partnership with BusPatrol LLC, enforces adherence to the New York State law requiring motorists to come to a complete stop when a stopped school bus has its red lights flashing; including on divided highways, such as Routes 9, 44 and 55 in Poughkeepsie. School buses across Dutchess County are outfitted with stop-arm cameras to catch those who illegally pass a stopped school bus. As of the start of the 2024-25 school year, nine of the 13 school districts within Dutchess County have joined the partnership.

In addition to traffic safety, County Executive Serino and Sheriff Imperati reiterated Dutchess County’s ongoing efforts to maintain a secure and supportive atmosphere within local schools.

Sheriff Imperati said, “The safety of our students and our community is our number one priority.  Our specially trained and experienced School Resource Officers are looking forward to heading back-to-school as well as they return to local schools for the school year, as part of our proactive initiative of prevention, education and intervention.”

County Executive Sue Serino said, “Success in the classroom is the result of the efforts of students, parents, teachers and the community coming together in partnership to create a foundation for achievement and growth. Dutchess County wishes all our local students a year full of growth, learning and success. May this new school year bring you endless opportunities to shine!”