REI’s recessed camera designed to prevent head injuries
The supplier’s new camera extends 1 inch from the ceiling. Other features of the camera include adjustable viewing angles, high-resolution color and intelligent IR technology designed for viewing footage clearly day or night.

REI's new camera extends one inch from the ceiling. The camera also features adjustable viewing angles, high-resolution color and intelligent IR technology designed for viewing footage clearly.
OMAHA, Neb. — REI’s new, low profile, recessed camera is designed to help prevent head injuries, company officials said.
Historically, cameras mounted in school buses have protruded several inches from the ceiling, according to the supplier, creating a serious risk of head impact by passengers. To address this hazard, REI introduced a camera that only extends 1 inch from the ceiling and creates a safe passenger zone.
REI’s recessed camera meets amendment changes to school bus specifications in the state of Iowa. The supplier cited Iowa Administrative Code, Education [281] Ch. 44, page 18 sec. 44.3(39) i (6-11-14): “Camera heads shall not extend more than 1” from the ceiling and shall have rounded edges as much as possible.” Other states are expected to follow suit, prompting an immediate resolution for passenger safety, company officials said.
Other features of the camera include adjustable viewing angles, high-resolution color and intelligent IR technology designed for viewing footage clearly day or night. A tamper-proof design allows for maximum safety and accountability of drivers and passengers, according to the company.
The camera can be mounted in a variety of locations throughout a bus. Two lens sizes are available: 2.8mm and 3.6mm.
More Safety

Another School Bus Fatality Reported in Monsey, New York
A 7-year-old girl died after being struck by a school bus in Rockland County, New York while crossing the street. Here's what we know.
Read More →
NSTA Announces 2026 School Bus Driver International Safety Competition Winners
Drivers from across the U.S. and Canada showcased their safety and driving skills, with two defending champions successfully retaining their titles.
Read More →
The Driver Shortage Playbook
Driver shortages are still a major challenge for student transportation fleets, but the real issue has shifted. It’s no longer just about filling seats quickly. It’s about finding safe, reliable drivers who meet performance expectations and want to stay. The Driver Shortage Playbook covers why traditional recruitment tactics are falling short and how school fleets are adapting with smarter hiring, stronger retention strategies and a greater focus on driver quality.
Read More →
Pro-Vision Launches AI-Powered 360° Camera System
The new Birdseye camera delivers real-time AI-based pedestrian and vehicle detections, full visibility around the bus, and telematics integrations.
Read More →
N.Y. & N.J. Coalitions Call for Modernized Transportation for Vulnerable Students
New statewide coalitions in New York and New Jersey are urging lawmakers to expand student transportation options for vulnerable students amid ongoing driver shortages.
Read More →
America Has a School Bus Passing Problem — and Distraction Is Making It Worse
Illegal school bus passing remains a major safety threat as distracted driving rises. This op-ed explores why awareness, enforcement, and stop-arm cameras matter more than ever.
Read More →
School Bus Laws to Watch: New York Delays EV Mandate
Plus, federal lawmakers seek new funding for school bus safety as states weigh stop-arm enforcement, disability protections, and education spending.
Read More →
Operation STEER Brings Emergency Response Training to North Texas
Prosper ISD hosted the third annual training for transportation professionals across 67 districts to learn how to respond to emergencies, such as rollovers and evacuations, and proper use of safety equipment.
Read More →
Florida District Relaunches BusPatrol School Bus Camera Program With New Safeguards
After being suspended over due process concerns, Miami-Dade schools and law enforcement are restarting the AI-powered stop-arm camera program with new oversight.
Read More →
School Bus Laws To Watch: Seat Belt Bills, Funding Fights & EV Changes
From national bills on seat belts and driver oversight to driver awareness campaigns referencing “Finn’s Rule” and ongoing transportation funding debates in Alaska, here’s the latest in school bus legislation across the U.S.
Read More →
