New Lights on Berne Union Buses Help Protect Students on Rural Roads
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 2, 2026
New Lights on Berne Union Buses Help Protect Students on Rural Roads
A $42,516 state grant paid for illuminated bus signs, illuminated stop signs and lighted crossover mirrors on the entire fleet
A $42,516 state grant paid for illuminated bus signs, illuminated stop signs and lighted crossover mirrors on the entire fleet
Sugar Grove, Ohio – On the rural roads of the Berne Union Local School District, school buses are now easier to see, and so are the students walking to and from them. Every bus in the district’s fleet has new illuminated school bus signs, illuminated stop signs and lighted crossover mirrors, all installed over the summer and paid for with a $42,516 award from the Ohio School Bus Safety Grant Program. The lights on the crossover mirrors shine on the road in front of the bus, helping keep students visible and safe as they cross and load. Together, the new lights help buses and their stops stand out to drivers, which matters most in low light.
“Many of our roads are dark and rural, so every bit of added light helps. These upgrades make our stops safer for students, and we are grateful to the state for making them possible,” said Angie Barnes, assistant supervisor of transportation and maintenance for the district.
“Student safety is our first priority, and these lights give our drivers and our students added protection every day. We are proud that every bus in our fleet now has them,” said Superintendent Jon Parker.
The district received the grant in January 2026. The statewide program distributed $10 million to help schools and organizations add upgraded safety features to their buses. More information is available on the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce website.
Drone videos and photos are available HERE.
Berne Union Local Schools is located in Sugar Grove, Ohio. The mission of the district is to develop students of character, resilience, and adaptability who will become productive citizens in our changing world. More information is available at buschools.com.
