Drivers reminded to drive safely around schools

Submitted by Lethbridge School District No. 51

Lethbridge School District No. 51 would like to remind drivers that safety on the roadways surrounding our schools is of the utmost importance.

A number of issues have been identified in regards to unsafe driving habits near District 51 schools, particularly at busy times of the day, when students are being dropped off for the beginning of school and picked up after the final bell.

Incidents of drivers parking in school bus loading zones and stopping in the middle of the road to drop off children have been reported.

The district would like to remind drivers of the dangers involved for students, particularly when they must cross a lane with oncoming traffic when they are unsafely dropped off in the middle of the street.

Lethbridge Transit and Lethbridge School District No. 51 are also reminding motorists the Lethbridge Police Service reserves the right to issue tickets to those who are parking within school bus loading zones.

Safety issues are also created when motorists block the school buses trying to enter the lineup near the loading zones, as the buses have nowhere safe to stop and load/unload our students. Some children run between the buses to their parents’ cars, which is another extremely dangerous practice.

Parents are also reminded to not use their handheld device while driving. It is a $287 fine and three demerits.

As for students, please use crosswalks and wait until the bus comes to a stop before approaching to board the bus.