We have noticed an increase in the number of potentially dangerous situations during the morning drop-off and afternoon pickup times. To help keep our students safe, we’d like to remind everyone of our Paw Paw Elementary Campus Parking procedures.
There is no parking in the bus loop or staff parking lot on the back (west) side of the schools.
Please follow all posted signage for traffic flow in both the Early and Later Elementary parking lots.
The right (curb-side) lane of the drop-off drive is for student drop-off and/or pickup. This lane is considered a fire lane. There is no parking in the drop-off lane except to allow your child to quickly exit the vehicle. (**It is acceptable for vehicles to line up in the right lane at the end of the day while waiting to pick up their child as long as the driver doesn’t exit the vehicle.)
Students should always exit and enter the vehicle on the right side (curbside) of the vehicle so they don’t walk into traffic.
Always be alert for children in the drop-off and pickup loop and drive very slowly. (5 mph)
If there is no staff member present to help with crossing, please be extra cautious to ensure all of our students are safe.
IN THE MORNING/DROP-OFF
The drop-off lane is for a quick exit. We attempt to have adults available to help children get out of the vehicle, but if they can get out on their own the line will move more quickly.
If you have to exit your vehicle to help your child have supplies or be ready for the day, please choose a parking space and walk them to the door. When dropping off, please make sure your child has their coat on and backpack ready so they are ready to get out of the car.
As cars move ahead, please pull all the way forward to the crosswalk.
Stay in the line of cars even if your student has gotten out of the car. The left lane is blocked with cones to help keep our students crossing the drive safe.
If parents want to walk their child to the school entrance, they must first park their car in the visitor lot and then walk their child into their building.
IN THE AFTERNOON/PICKUP
Cars may line up along the curb before dismissal if the driver stays in the car.
No cars should be parked along the shoulder or the curb beyond the crosswalk. This interferes with the exiting traffic and leads to unsafe situations.
The left lane will be open to allow cars to leave as soon as they have picked up their child. Please wait for the crossing guard to motion you to go through the crosswalk when we are sure there are no families crossing to the parking lot.
If you need to speak to your child’s teacher or get out of your car to pick up your child, please use the visitor parking lot.
We have had numerous instances of people darting between cars with their children, especially at the end of the day. This is very unsafe as cars pull out as soon as their student has gotten in the car. We ask everyone to PLEASE USE THE CROSSWALK and teach your children safe habits in traffic.
We understand that dropping off and picking up can be stressful times and that it’s difficult to be patient. Your courtesy and respect are greatly appreciated in helping our staff ensure the safety of all children on our elementary campus.