Cook County children are headed back to school on Tuesday, September 6 and the Cook County News-Herald reminds motorists to be aware of kids walking, biking, getting on and off school buses and being dropped off at area schools. The News-Herald checked in with area schools to find out if there is anything new that kids, parents, and community members should know about being safe on the way to and from school.
Birch Grove Community School
Diane Blanchette at Birch Grove Community School said the bus routes and student drop-off procedures are the same as in years past. And, she said, the reminders she would like to give are the same as in other years. “Watch for the school bus and stop for the flashing lights and stop arm,” said Blanchette.
To students, Blanchette said, “There is safety in number—stay together at your bus stop. Wait for the bus stop traffic arm to go out, but also wait for traffic to stop. Look! Look! Look!”
Cook County ISD 166
One change for ISD 166 is a solarpowered radar speed sign on 5th Street (County Road 7), a very visible symbol to remind motorists to observe the 20-mph school limit speed zone. There are other changes at ISD 166 as well including the requirement that all visitors enter through the main entrance at the Grand Marais campus.
Elementary school students may still be dropped off and parents may meet them in the Sawtooth Elementary School parking area (by the playground).
Great Expectations School
At press time, Peter James, director of Great Expectations School, said GES is conducting crossing guard training. He said GES paraprofessionals will be on hand from 8:00 – 8:10 a.m. and at 3:10 p.m. to ensure that students cross 5th Street (County Road 7) safely. “The important thing,” said James, “is that parents park and drop off students on the north side of 5th Street, on the sidewalk side.
Oshki Ogimaag – the School of New Leaders
Fred Kasianov, director of Oshki Ogimaag, said there are no changes to bus routes or student drop off areas at Oshki Ogimaag, but he reminded kids to stand back when busses approach. “Do not play on the edge of the curbs, especially in the winter.”
Kasianov has a unique perspective— he was a school bus driver while earning his undergraduate degree, so he knows how difficult the job can be. “It is very important for students to be mindful of the approaching bus and to listen to the bus driver. They need to stay seated and be quiet. Don’t distract the driver!”
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