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Suggested General Guidelines
for Safe Drop Off/Pick Up
- Learn the procedure – Each school has its own specific procedure for drop off and pick up, that has been designed to move cars and kids in and out most efficiently; but these procedures only work if motorists follow them closely. Everyone dropping off or picking up kids from school has the responsibility to know the procedures. Ask your school’s principal or other school staff member for the written procedure and map for Safe Drop Off and Pick Up, then help to spread the word by reminding other motorists. Always observe all official signs and instructions by school staff during drop off or pick up.
- Use only designated drop off locations – each school has a designated location to drop off and pick up kids; drivers should use only that location.
- Do not park across the street from the drop location – having kids crossing the streets mid-block is dangerous, especially with all the other cars coming in to drop off kids, and it’s unfair to nearby neighbors who may already be experiencing high levels of traffic.
- Do not use the school’s bus loading zone – this zone is for school buses only, and dropping kids off at this location is not only dangerous, it also slows down the flow of all the other cars, and any buses coming in.
- Allow extra time – everyone is very busy, but that’s no excuse to put our kids’ safety at risk – leave a few minutes early to allow ample time for drop off and pick up. Just a few minutes can make a great difference, and help to make the traffic circulation around schools more efficient for everyone.
- Be courteous and respectful of neighbors – you can reduce the traffic and parking impact on residents living near a school drop off location by following all procedures, and by being sure to never park in front of driveways.
- Get involved – become a school volunteer and help to distribute drop off/pick up information, promote appropriate procedures among motorists, or monitor the traffic flow during drop off and pick up. Ask your school how best to get involved.
- Have the kids walk to and from school – if feasible, this is a great way to help kids get fresh air and exercise, and stay healthy – and it will significantly reduce the number of cars around the school and neighborhood. The little ones should be accompanied on their walk. Biking to school is also a great alternative.
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