We made it through the holiday season. I hope you all had a fun and relaxing break.
We have definitely entered the cold and snowy time of year. And while there are more and more cold and snowy days, we still have many students who walk or ride their bikes to school. I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone about crosswalk safety and how to navigate the concrete jungle around our amazing school.
Over the past couple of years Aspen View Academy, in partnership with Castle Rock Police Department and the Town of Castle Rock Streets Division, has developed a safe route guide for those walking or biking to school. We are all committed to providing information to families to help them make decisions regarding where to cross and walk to and from school.
Remember, while a student may know the route to school, they may not be able to make safe decisions when crossing the street.
The following are some additional safety tips when using the crosswalks:
- Cross only at corners and crosswalks.
- Keep looking left and right as you cross.
- Do not enter the crosswalk until all cars have come to a complete stop. Even if you pushed the crosswalk button to cross.
- Wait for cars to stop.
- Be a role model and show students what proper pedestrian behavior you want them to mirror.
- Do not be a distracted pedestrian. Remind students to remove ear buds and not to use their cell phones when crossing the street.
- Look left, right, left before crossing and make eye contact with the driver. Many drivers are distracted which means you want to be sure they see you and they have come to a complete stop.
- Assist those under 10 years of age while walking and crossing the street. Young children do not possess the cognitive skills or depth perception to safely judge the distance and speed of oncoming vehicles.
Riding a bike to school additional safety tips:
- Wear a helmet! It is the most effective way to prevent a head injury in the event of a crash when participating in any wheeled sport.
- Walk your bike on school property and when using crosswalks.
- When riding a bicycle, do not carry anything in your hands. Make sure backpack straps do not hang down into wheels or pedals.
In addition to these safety tips Aspen View Academy has increased the number of staff assisting parents and students either crossing the street or in the drop off / pick up lanes. Aspen View Academy strives to keep everybody safe whether coming to school or leaving school.
Bob Barber
AVA Principal
