During the first two weeks of March, second grade students throughout the district participated in Pedestrian Safety Education sessions. The sessions were a collaboration between the PE and Health Department, Somerville’s Office of Food Access and Healthy Communities, MA Safe Routes to School, Somerville High School Early Education CTE students, and parent volunteers. Students learned about sidewalk safety, how to cross the street safely, as well as driveway and parking lot safety. If you have a second grader, ask them about the Sneak & Peek. They should also be able to tell you what color the reverse lights are on a car.

Massachusetts Safe Routes to School is also promoting several other events this month. School communities are encouraged to recognize and thank their crossing guards for keeping us safe on Crossing Guard Appreciation Day, Wednesday March 23. Additionally, you can nominate your crossing guard for a 2022 Crossing Guard of the Year award. Nomination deadline is March 23, 2022 as well. For more information, visit the Crossing Guard section of the SRTS website.

Students are invited to participate in the popular SRTS School Yard Sign Design Contest this month as well. This year’s contest theme is focused on creating Walking School Bus and/or Bike Train signs that help guide students on their way to and from school, and that alert drivers to walking/biking routes. Entries are due Friday, March 25.