Staff
OPP Cst. Anne McCoy will be coordinating a group of community volunteers to help in the implementation phase of the “Kiss ‘N Ride” programs, which are set to start up at Robert Moore, J.W. Walker, and St. Francis Schools when the school year begins later this month.
The “Kiss ‘N Ride” program, initiated by the Fort Frances Traffic Safety Committee in conjunction with the Rainy River District School Board and Northwest Catholic District School Board, is a convenient, safe and efficient procedure for dropping off children in the morning, and for picking up children from school in the afternoon.
“Once a parent/caregiver’s car has come to a complete stop in the designated area, a staff member will be waiting to greet the occupants and ensure the children safely arrive to or depart from school,” Cst. McCoy explained.
“This program separates the vehicular traffic from school bus traffic to further enhance the safe and efficient transportation process, hence the new construction occurring at Robert Moore and J.W. Walker school sites,” she noted.
She stressed both school boards are committed to student safety.
“As more and more parents drive their children to and from school, there is a need to address safety issues,” she voiced. “Increased congestion in front and around schools has become a serious health and safety issue.
“Elementary schools are a particular concern due to the ages of the children involved,” she continued. “‘Kiss ‘N Ride’ is a proven proactive strategy to help ensure the safety of all our children.
“Injuries that children can sustain in a traffic incident are predictable and preventable,” Cst. McCoy added, reiterating that the purpose of the program is to empower parents and school communities as they strive to keep all children safe.
Therefore, she is looking for volunteers to assist with the dispersal of information and relay back to coordinators any observations or feedback from those utilizing the “Kiss ‘N Ride” program during the implementation phase.
This assistance is needed beginning Aug. 27 to Sept. 6 from 8:15-8:45 a.m. and from 3-3:30 p.m.
Cst. McCoy indicated volunteers are welcome to sign up once or as many times as they wish during these periods.
“Volunteers will be working along side the Seniors and Law Enforcement Together (SALT) Committee and will be helping off of school property along the ‘Kiss ‘N Ride’ designated driving routes, identified by a high-visibility vest,” she expressed.
Once the duties are assigned, a short meeting will be held prior to Aug. 27 to explain tasks and answer any questions.
She is hoping for at least of 20 volunteers in order to cover all three school areas.
Those who are interested in lending a hand in support of this project, please contact Cst. McCoy via e-mail at anne.mccoy@ontario.ca or leave a message at (807) 274-3322 ext 3455.
