Kindergarten students in Regina had the opportunity to ride a school bus for the first time thanks to the ‘First Ride’ program.

The fifth edition of the event was put on by the Regina Catholic and Public School Division as a chance for kids to ride the bus before the school year starts.

“It’s necessary to help students feel comfortable on a school bus. Leaving on a school bus for the very first time on the very first school day can cause anxiety for students, and for students to actually go on a first ride on a school bus with the parents nearby, it reduces anxiety,” said Josh Kramer, the chief financial officer for Regina Catholic Schools.

Kramer said that kids were taught crosswalk safety, school safety patrol, bike safety, bus evacuation, and safety.

He added that in a typical year, around 500 students participate in the program.