On behalf of the Springfield Police Department, Springfield Public Schools and the city of Springfield, High School of Commerce Graduates Police Superintendent Lawrence E. Akers and Mayor Domenic J. Sarno along with Classical High School Graduate Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sonia Dinnall would like to remind drivers in the city that the first day of school is fast approaching. On Monday August 25th there are going to be thousands of children, crossing guards and school buses on our streets as the school year gets underway.
In a school-zone the speed limit is 20 MPH. Everyone is urged to please slow down, put your phone down and pay attention behind the wheel. Also, for parents who drop-off/pick-up their children; please abide by each individual schools' pick-up and drop-off procedure to maintain a steady flow of traffic to ensure the safety of students, teachers, staff and parents.
It is illegal for drivers to pass a school bus with its stop arm out and red lights flashing. When you see yellow lights on a bus that means slow down and prepare to stop. Red lights mean you must stop in both directions.
Superintendent Akers stated, “As students, teachers and staff are ready to begin a new school year, their safety is our top priority. We do want to stress to our parents and drivers, the importance of being extra vigilant with students getting on and off buses, walking to school and exiting and entering the school grounds. Parents and guardians, please let your children know if they see anything out of the ordinary at or on their way to school to immediately alert a police officer or an adult they trust. Let’s work as a community to keep our kids safe.”
Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno stated, “As we welcome our students, staff and families back to school it is important for everyone to take notice and not drive distracted. I echo Superintendent Akers’ call for care and vigilance. Please, we urge drivers to stay alert and recognize that our buses, students and crossing guards will be out starting Monday, August 25th.” Mayor Sarno continues, "Our brave and dedicated men and women in blue will be out there to keep everyone safe and sound, especially our children, families and staff, to make sure that everyone gets to and from school safe and sound. Please pay attention to the road and please slow down and stop for our buses when you see the red lights flashing and for our crossing guards. Our buses and crossing guards are caring for our precious and beloved children, please respect that and let them safely do their jobs."
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sonia Dinnall “I am grateful to Mayor Sarno and Police Superintendent Akers for once again reminding our community of the importance of safety as we begin a new school year. With more than 20,000 students traveling to and from schools across Springfield each day, it will take all of us - drivers, families, and community members - working together to keep our streets safe. Every careful decision behind the wheel helps ensure that our students arrive at school ready to learn and return home safely to their families.”
The Springfield Police, Springfield Public Schools and Mayor Sarno all want our students in the city of Springfield to have a safe and happy school year.
