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After 1,000 school zone violations last year, Marysville police urge drivers to slow down

Published 1:30 am Tuesday, August 26, 2025

By Jenna Millikan

Ian Terry / The Herald A school bus driven by Jan Bates stops on 83rd Avenue Northeast in Marysville on Tuesday, March 14. Bates’ bus, along with 14 others in the district, have been equipped with cameras to watch for drivers who illegally pass the bus when its stop sign is out. Photo taken on 03142017

Ian Terry / The Herald A school bus driven by Jan Bates stops on 83rd Avenue Northeast in Marysville on Tuesday, March 14. Bates’ bus, along with 14 others in the district, have been equipped with cameras to watch for drivers who illegally pass the bus when its stop sign is out. Photo taken on 03142017

EVERETT — As the back-to-school season kicks off, the Marysville Police Department urges drivers to slow down and stay alert after more than 1,000 traffic violations around school zones and buses last year.

From Sept. 1, 2024, to June 20, 2025, officers issued 553 citations for speeding in school zones, a police press release said. Many drivers traveled at least 15 mph over the posted 20 mph limit and disregarded flashing warning signs.

Despite state laws requiring all lanes stop unless separated by a physical barrier, many drivers failed to yield for school buses with extended stop paddles and flashing red or yellow lights, the release said. Police recorded 506 violations regarding stop paddles.

Police issued 14 citations for other school zone violations, including failure to yield to children in crosswalks, disobeying flaggers, reckless driving and DUI offenses during school hours, the release said.

Traffic and school resource units are preparing for increased patrols when the school year begins, the release said. School zone violations are doubled compared to other traffic violations. The minimum fine is $214.

Jenna Millikan: 425-339-3035; jenna.millikan@heraldnet.com; X: @JennaMillikan

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