The Seattle School Board held a special meeting on July 30, 2025, to discuss the implementation of stop paddle cameras on school buses, a measure aimed at enhancing student safety. The initiative, authorized by the Washington State legislature, seeks to deter motorists from illegally passing stopped school buses while students are boarding or disembarking.

During the meeting, representatives from Seattle Public Schools highlighted the success of similar programs in neighboring districts, such as Issaquah and Bellevue, which have reportedly generated significant revenue while improving safety. The district plans to expand its contract with VeriMobility to install these cameras on all school buses, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the city.

Board members emphasized that the primary goal of the program is not revenue generation but rather the protection of students. Data from previous trials indicated that 99 percent of drivers who received a violation did not reoffend, demonstrating the effectiveness of the cameras as a deterrent. The board discussed the importance of ensuring that all buses, regardless of neighborhood, are equipped with these cameras to maximize safety.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the financial aspects of the program. While a portion of the revenue from violations would go to the school district, the majority would be allocated to King County for enforcement and processing of infractions. Any funds received by the district are mandated by state law to be reinvested in student safety initiatives, such as funding crossing guards.

The discussion also included inquiries about the status of existing contracts related to school zone speeding violations, with board members expressing concern over the lack of enforcement due to staffing issues at the county level. The board agreed to explore potential solutions to enhance safety measures for students traveling to and from school.

In conclusion, the Seattle School Board's decision to implement stop paddle cameras on school buses reflects a commitment to student safety, with plans to ensure that all buses are equipped and operational for the upcoming school year. The initiative aims to create a safer environment for students while addressing the critical issue of traffic violations near schools.