Drivers need to keep safety in mind as school nears

 Another year of classes at Chase County Schools (CCS)start Wednesday, Aug. 23, and motorists are urged to drive carefully and always be watchful of children on the street.
    Nationally, nearly one-third of child pedestrian fatalities occur between 3 and 7 p.m. Increased awareness before and after school is critical with afternoons being particularly dangerous for child pedestrians. Motorists are advised to slow down and watch for children walking or on bicycles.
Crosswalks, speed limits
    The speed limit in school zones near CCS is 15 mph. Going east on 9th street from Broadway past the school, the speed limit is clearly posted, Police Chief Ryan Wisnieski stated.
    There are several crosswalks marked for children to cross the street safely. There is one crosswalk at 9th and Broadway, two in front of the school and another at 10th and Shorthorn Street, Wisnieski said. Motorists are encouraged to approach with caution and don’t get in a hurry. Allow children to get clear of the crosswalk before proceeding.
    As in years past, Wisnieski said, there will be a police car stationed at various times to monitor crosswalks.
    “Most people follow the speed limits pretty well,” he said.
    Wisnieski added that students should not be unloaded at the school between crosswalks or on the road. They should always pull over to the side to let students out as they head into the school building.
Buses, designated stops
    There will be one school bus within the city limits that will have designated spots for morning pickups and afternoon drop-offs. The rural school buses will do afternoon only drop-offs at designated spots, as well, said Rex Felker, director of CCS transportation.
    Felker said they will try to run the same rural routes as last year, but there is a possibility of combining some routes due to a shortage of bus drivers.
    There are a number of new substitute drivers this year who will be getting broke in, he said.
    “Be patient with us the first two weeks while we get people trained,” Felker said.
    He said he thought the students would be a big help for new drivers, too.
    More drivers are needed. If anyone is interested in driving a school bus, call the school and let them know, he added.