September 15, 2009
Dear Copper Ridge Parent,
In an effort to address ongoing safety concerns related to traffic during our drop-off and pick-up times, we have put together the following safety information for our parents. In a large school with very young students it is important that we be alert, conscientious, and mindful that we are modeling safety practices that will be followed by our students for years to come.
Student Drop-Off and Pick-Up
The only safe drop-off and pick-up location is the back loop (west). Parents should be using this area exclusively for drop-off and pick-up. Loading and unloading on this loop can take place on a sidewalk adjacent to the school grounds. Also, a crossing guard is available to cross students to parked cars. Parents can help by moving forward to the furthest available space when indicated. Your child will have to move and follow your car until it stops to load. The designated loading zone is the area where we have the sidewalk and fence to the beginning of the basketball courts. Students should not be loading in any other area.
Crossing Guard
Crossing guards are not to direct traffic, though we acknowledge that they may have done this in the past. Crossing guards are only to stop traffic for pedestrians only. Therefore, the crossing guard will not stop traffic to allow left turnouts. Encourage your students to always use the crosswalk and model this practice for the benefit of all students.
Restricted Areas
The staff parking lot is not a safe drop-off point for students. Between 7:45AM and 8:15AM, the staff lot is available to
Supervision / School Resource Officer
One of the budget cuts this year was the SRO position at many schools. We no longer have an SRO to help direct traffic at our campus. Please be respectful to the staff members that are helping provide a safe environment for your child.
Long term-Solutions:
The district office personnel are currently looking at a south exit of our campus that would provide an additional exit.
Other Important Considerations
Parents of early elementary school students are encouraged to hold the hand of their student as you leave the drop off area or approach the pick up area. Our younger students have a way of being here one minute and gone the next. They can also be difficult to see from behind the wheel of a larger vehicle. All parents should refrain from using electronic devices while driving in this school zone as your full attention may be called upon in these surroundings.
We outline these points with the safety of every Copper Ridge student in mind. We’ve listened to concerns and suggestions from various groups and have enlisted the support of district leadership in considering long-term solutions to our traffic issue. While solutions are considered, we must pull together and make safety our priority. Thank you for your support and cooperation.
Sincerely,
Sheila Burnham D
Principal Assistant Principal K-5 Assistant Principal 6-8
