UPDATE 1:24 pm - All students and the driver have been released from Pender Memorial Hospital with no reported injuries. One student was released at the scene of the accident.
UPDATE 9:44am - Parents may pick their children up at Pender Memorial Hospital after their evaluation.
Pender County Schools confirms that school bus 243 was involved in an accident this morning on Highway 53 in the Maple Hill area. At the time of the incident, there were 24 students and one driver on board.
State Highway Patrol is on scene and is leading the response and investigation. Out of an abundance of caution, students have been transported to Pender Memorial Hospital for evaluation. School and district administration are currently with the students.
At this time, Pender County Schools has been informed that there are no major injuries to students or staff.
Pender County Schools will continue to provide updates to families as additional verified information becomes available.