News Flash

The new school year begins Wednesday, August 30. The Battle Ground Police Department urges motorists to focus on safety by being patient and remaining alert to traffic, pedestrians, bicyclists, and the 20 mph speed limit in school zones.

Roads near schools are typically congested during the morning and afternoon drop-off and pick-up hours, especially the first few weeks of school.  Expect delays and watch for students walking or riding bikes and crossing streets. Police remind drivers of the 20 mph speed limit in school zones, to stop at all intersections controlled by stop signs and signal lights, and that people using a crosswalk have the right-of-way.

School buses will be out in force.  It is illegal to pass a school bus that has stopped to receive or discharge students.  School bus drivers will use flashing yellow lights to alert motorists that they are going to stop. Red flashing lights and an extended stop arm indicate that the bus has stopped and that children are getting on or off.  Motorists must stop their cars and wait until the red flashing lights are turned off, the stop arm is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving before they start driving again. 

Children walking or bicycling to school should also focus on safety; remain aware of traffic, wear bright or reflective clothing and a helmet when bicycling, stay on the sidewalk or within the bike lane, and cross at marked crosswalks.