Ottumwa Schools Families, we want to make you aware of an incident that occurred after school today, Thursday, August 27, 2026. A student who had been dropped off at a district bus stop approximately one block away was struck by a vehicle.

Our thoughts are with the student and their family. We are working closely with them to provide support, and we are grateful to share that the student is expected to make a full recovery. Thank you to the emergency personnel involved for their response to the situation.

We understand that incidents like this can be concerning for our school community. We want to remind all drivers to remain especially alert and drive with caution in and around our schools and bus stops. Please watch for students, buses, and crossing pedestrians, and be mindful of reduced speeds and changing traffic patterns during arrival and dismissal times.

We encourage families to reinforce these safety practices with students:

• Students: Stop before entering the roadway and look left, right, and left again before crossing. Never assume a driver sees you or will stop.
• Drivers: Put phones and other distractions away and remain alert, particularly during school arrival and dismissal times.
• Be alert near bus stops: Students may be walking to or from a bus stop even when a school bus is no longer present.
• Slow down and stay aware: Watch carefully for children who may be entering or crossing the roadway.
• Use designated crossings when available: Students should use intersections and marked crosswalks whenever possible.

We appreciate your patience, understanding, and continued commitment to keeping our students safe.