NORTH CAROLINA -- According to the N.C. Highway Patrol, more than 3,000 times a day, someone passes a stopped school bus in our state.

In Brunswick County, the school system is teaming up with the sheriff’s office for Operation Safe Ride.

It's the third year for the program that allows sheriff deputies to ride along on different bus routes and radio to nearby patrol cars when they spot a violator.

“We want to transport our students and we want them to be safe,” said Bobby Taylor, Brunswick County Schools Transportation Director.

Ride alongs are scheduled for later this month, on the 15th, 22th and 29th.