Information for Walkers/Bikers

Back to School Tips for Walkers, Bikers and Drivers

Important Safety Information for Walkers, Bikers, and Drivers as the New School Year Begins

As we prepare for the start of the new school year—and with recent changes to the Plano ISD transportation plan—we anticipate an increase in students walking or biking to and from school. To help ensure a safe and smooth transition, we would like to share some important reminders and safety tips for students and drivers.

Safety Tips for Students Walking or Biking to School

• Plan Ahead: Map out and practice your route to school before the first day.
• Accompany Young Children: Teach them how to use crosswalks and be aware of vehicle traffic.
  Build Community Awareness: Get to know your neighbors and other students who walk or bike to school.
• Travel in Groups: Coordinate with friends or neighbors to walk or ride together.
• Stranger Safety: Remind children not to talk to strangers or accept rides from people they don’t know.
• Wear a Helmet: Helmets are essential for all cyclists—safety first.
• Use the Safest Route: Stick to the most direct, well-traveled path and use pedestrian-activated crosswalks whenever available.
• Stay on Sidewalks: Children should use sidewalks whenever possible.
• Follow Crossing Guard Instructions: If crossing guards are present, follow their directions to cross safely.
• Be Alert: Always look both ways before crossing and stay aware of your surroundings.
• Know School Hours: Be aware of when your school opens its doors to plan arrival times appropriately.

Important Reminders for Drivers

With the new school year beginning on Tuesday, August 12th, it is crucial for all drivers to be extra cautious and aware of increased pedestrian and school bus traffic.

• Drive with Caution: Slow down in school zones, approach crosswalks carefully, and be prepared to stop completely.
  Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road, obey all traffic signs and signals, and avoid using handheld devices. In Texas, using handheld devices in school zones is illegal.
  Yield to Pedestrians: Always yield the right-of-way at crosswalks and never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians.
• Know the Law: Under the Lisa Torry Smith Act, Texas drivers must yield to pedestrians and cyclists in crosswalks and intersections. Violations may result in severe penalties, including criminal charges if injuries occur.
• School Bus Safety: Stop when approaching a bus with flashing red lights. Do not pass until the lights stop. You are not required to stop if the bus is on a different roadway or in a controlled-access loading zone where children cannot cross.

Drop-Off and Pick-Up Best Practices for Parents

• Remain in Your Vehicle: Only exit if directed by staff.
• Use Designated Zones: Drop off and pick up in supervised areas only.
• Pull Forward: Help traffic flow by pulling all the way up in the line.
• Stay Off Phones: Keep your focus on student safety.
• Be Prepared: Children should have their belongings ready to exit quickly.
• Exit Curbside: Always have students exit on the sidewalk side.
• Follow Assigned Times: Arrive only during your scheduled time window.
• Display Name Sign: If required, place it clearly on your dashboard.
• Be Courteous: Follow staff instructions and be patient with others.
• Model Safety: Use crosswalks and obey traffic signs.

Thank you for doing your part to help ensure a safe and successful start to the school year for all students, staff, and families. Your support and cooperation are essential in maintaining a safe school environment.