Riderwood continues to have some difficulties with traffic control on Landrake Road before and after school. Although none of our children have been hurt, many parents have called about unsafe driving practices in front of the school and it is alos being reported by teachers who are on duty in the morning or afternoon. We are asking you to review these simple procedures so that we may have improved safety for everyone concerned.

1. We have NO STOPPING SIGNS around the corners in front of the school that are designed to provide turning room for the buses and to give plenty of visibility for vehicles entering and exiting the school. Please don't park between the signs and the corners.

2. In the morning, for those parents that are dropping off their children, we have an unloading zone designated (see accompanying map) that is next to the crossing guard. Please don't park in the unloading zone in the morning. Make an effort to clear the zone quickly if there are cars lined up behind you.

3. Making U-turns in front of the school during the busiest times (8:15-9:00 and 3:00-3:30) when the crowding is the highest is dangerous. This maneuver has been the cause of several near misses in the past. Please find another place to turn your vehicle that is not in front of the school or go around the building via Halton Rd.

4. We have Safety Patrols to assist the younger children in the morning and the afternoon. They have instructions to guide the children to designated crosswalks, discourage running, and keep children off the grass. They also control barriers that limit vehicle entry onto school property to buses and staff. Please respect the Safety Patrols. It is unfair to put them in the awkward position of having to enforce the rules with an adult. Do not enter the bus loop during loading and unloading times (8:15 to 9:00 and 3:00 to 3:45). Please park on the street and have your child walk up to the school.

5. Pay attention and be cautious at all times. It is more important to drive your car carefully than to watch your child walk up the sidewalk.

6. All the drivers in your family should review this memo. Mom and Dad, older siblings, Grandmom and Granddad and even Nanny need to be aware of the routines.