An Urbita Elementary School student reads on the playground. / Photo by Corina Borsuk and provided courtesy of SBCUSD.
As nearly 44,000 students returned to San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) campuses for the start of the new school year on Monday, Aug. 3, the District’s School Police Department is urging motorists to exercise extra caution around schools and along student travel routes.
As families adjust to new routines and students return to classrooms, traffic is expected to increase significantly during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal.
School Police are reminding drivers to slow down, obey posted school zone speed limits and remain alert for students walking, riding bicycles, skating and using other forms of transportation to and from school, said School Police Chief John Guttierez.
“We all play a role in keeping our students safe,” Chief Guttierez said. “As students return to school, I encourage every driver to slow down, stay focused and be patient. A few extra seconds can make all the difference in protecting a child and helping ensure every student arrives safely at school and returns home to their family.”
Drivers are also encouraged to eliminate distractions by putting away cell phones and keeping their full attention on the road. A moment of inattention can have life-changing consequences.
To help ensure a safe start to the school year, SBCUSD School Police officers will have an increased presence around campuses and along school routes during arrival and dismissal times. Officers will assist with traffic flow, enforce traffic laws and work alongside school staff to help students arrive safely each day.
The District also reminds parents and guardians to use designated drop-off and pick-up areas, follow school traffic patterns, obey bus zones, avoid double parking and allow extra travel time during the first days of school. These simple steps help reduce congestion and create a safer environment for students, families and school employees.
Students who walk to and from school or the bus stop are encouraged to walk on sidewalks or pedestrian bridges when available, cross at marked crosswalks or intersections and obey traffic signals. Pedestrians should also remain aware of their surroundings. Distractions from using cell phones or other devices may lead to accidents.
The SBCUSD School Police Department thanks the community for its continued partnership in keeping students safe and wishes all students, families, teachers and staff a successful, safe and rewarding school year.
About San Bernardino City Unified School District:
The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) is California’s ninth-largest school district and is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for college, career and life. With a focus on equity, excellence and empowerment, the District serves a diverse student population in the San Bernardino and Highland communities. For more information about SBCUSD and its Vision 2030: SBCUSD SHINES initiative, visit www.sbcusd.com and follow the District @SBCityUSD on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and LinkedIn.
