Slow Down in Williston School Zones

Students are heading back to the classroom, and we want to remind parents and residents to follow the speed limit and be extra careful driving through school zones. School drop-offs and pick-ups can result in long wait times and kids at risk from the hazards resulting from such a large volume of cars packed around the school.

Please drive like it is your child, grandchild, niece or nephew walking or riding their bike to school. Pick-up and drop-off times can be hectic, but it’s important to be patient and stay safe as children are getting to and from school.

School zones are put in place to ensure the safety of children in and around schools.  While class is in session, drivers are responsible for maintaining safety and awareness on the streets surrounding schools. All children should be able to walk or bike to and from class without fear of being hit by passing vehicles.

If you are behind a school bus with a stop sign and flashing red lights, drivers need to stop so students can safely get on and off the bus. Drivers must remain stopped while the red lights are on. Drivers in both directions must stop on any two-lane road without a median or a center turn lane.

Here are some tips to follow to stay safe around schools:

• Slow down and follow the speed limit.
• Adhere to school policies and procedures for dropping off and picking up students.
• Stop for school buses. Watch for children rushing to catch the bus or exiting.
• Whenever possible, avoid blocking the crosswalk while waiting to make a right-hand turn.
• For parents with children walking or biking to school, teach them safe walking and riding behaviors, such as looking both ways before crossing the street, using sidewalks when available, and crossing at marked crosswalks with stop signs or signals.