Back to School in Montana: What Students, Parents, and Drivers Need to Know
One of the first things to remember is road safety around schools. Montana has strict rules for drivers in school zones, and those speed limits aren’t just suggestions — they’re designed to protect children who maybe walking, riding bikes, or hopping off the school bus. Even a few miles over the limit can lead to steep fines and points on your license. Distracted driving is another major concern. Glancing down at your phone, even for a few seconds, can put a child’s life at risk. It’s not worth the ticket, the fine, or the lifelong regret.
Inside school walls, it’s important for students and parents to understand how quickly certain situations can escalate. Many schools follow “zero tolerance” policies when it comes to physical altercations, which means a fight that might have once ended in detention could now lead to a misdemeanor or even a felony assault charge. It doesn’t matter if it happened in a hall way, the cafeteria, or at a school sporting event — the legal system can become involved. The same is true for behavior online. Montana has laws against cyberbullying and harassment, and students can face criminal charges for messages, posts, or images that cross the line. “It was just a joke” won’t holdup if someone decides to press charges.
Personal safety is another area families should keep in mind. Heavy backpacks may not seem like a serious issue, but over time they can cause muscle strain, back pain, and other injuries — especially if they’re loaded beyond what’s recommended for a child’s size. Sports season also brings its own risks. While bumps and bruises are a normal part of athletics, schools and coaches still have a duty to follow safety protocols and ensure equipment is in good condition. If those responsibilities are neglected and a student is injured, it could become a legal matter.
Finally, school bus safety is something every driver needs to take seriously. In Montana, it’s illegal to pass a stopped school bus with red lights flashing, regardless of which direction you’re coming from. This rule exists for a reason: children are unpredictable when getting on or off the bus, and one wrong move by a driver can cause tragedy. Violating this law can result in fines, license suspension, and even criminal charges if someone is hurt.
The start of the school year should be about learning, making friends, and building positive memories — not dealing with court dates or hospital bills. By staying aware, making safe choices, and knowing the law, we can all help make this school year a safe and successful one for Montana’s students.
