Drop off areas must be located away from where children on foot cross streets or access the school. If parents or caretakers can be trained to do it right at the start of the school year, they are likely to continue good behavior throughout the year. For a longer-term solution, it is preferable to create an environment where children can walk or bicycle safely to school, provided they live within a suitable distance. Soon a fairly sizeable group of children is walking in a regular formation, two by two, under the supervision of a responsible adult, who is mindful of street crossings. The presence of such groups affects drivers behavior, who tend to be more watchful of children walking.
Parents take turns accompanying the walking school bus in ways that fit their schedules.
Vehicles must slow down to enter the tight curve of this modern roundabout in a school zone in Montpelier, Vermont. The roundabout creates a safer interaction between vehicles and pedestrians. This guide is currently under review by practicioners and others in the field. Subsequently, the material provided on this page is subject to change in the future.