Back-to-school reminder: slowdown in Strathmore school zones

By Mario Prusina Times Editor

With students returning to classrooms for the 2026-27 school year, drivers are being reminded to slow down and pay close attention around Strathmore’s schools.

The Town of Strathmore is home to many schools, meaning the return to school brings increased pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle traffic throughout the community.

Under the Town of Strathmore’s current traffic control bylaw, the speed limit in a school zone is 30 km/h on school days during three designated periods: 8 to 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Drivers are encouraged to plan for additional traffic during the morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up periods and to be especially alert for children crossing streets or walking and cycling near schools.

The town community bylaw and peace officers patrol school and playground zones and work closely with the RCMP to enforce traffic safety rules.

The back-to-school safety reminders include:

• Slow down and obey the posted 30 km/h limit whenever school-zone restrictions are in effect.

• Watch for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly around school entrances and crosswalks.

• Put away distractions and keep your attention on the road.

• Stop for school buses when their red flashing lights and stop arms are activated.

• Leave plenty of room around school buses, which make frequent stops and can stop unexpectedly.

• Follow parking and stopping restrictions around schools. Areas marked as no stopping or no parking may be needed for buses and student drop-off.

• Avoid passing, U-turns and three-point turns around schools and crosswalks.

• Give yourself extra time during the busy morning and afternoon periods.

Students also have a role to play in keeping school areas safe. Children walking or cycling to school should plan their routes ahead of time, use designated crossings and remain alert when approaching roadways. Students should put away phones and other electronic devices and remove earbuds when crossing streets so they can hear approaching traffic.

Drivers should also make sure they have stopped before allowing a child to cross. Whenever possible, pedestrians should make eye contact with drivers before entering the roadway.

The town’s transportation planning has previously identified pedestrian safety around schools and major roadways as an area of concern, with residents also raising concerns about speeding in the community.

With school back in session, drivers are being reminded that a few extra seconds of caution can make a significant difference.

Slow down, stay alert and watch for children.