Renfrew County, ON – The first day of school in Renfrew County was challenging for many families, students, and school staff, due to the ongoing disruption to student transportation services. While everyone hopes there will be a resolution soon, now that school is in session, student safety is a top priority for our boards.

The Renfrew County District School Board (RCDSB) and Renfrew County Catholic District School Board (RCCDSB) want to inform families, students, and the public about what schools are doing to help keep kids safe, and what everyone can do to help.

WHAT SCHOOLS ARE DOING:

• All schools have additional staff available outside during pick-up and drop-off to provide additional supervision and support for students and families.
• Walking maps showing both 5-minute and 10-minute walking routes to schools are available for all schools in Renfrew County – some schools have already sent them out themselves. They can be found on the Renfrew County Joint Transportation Consortium website at: www.onthebus.ca/safety
• Both school boards are coordinating with municipalities, by-law officers, the OPP, and local police, to provide additional traffic management in the areas around schools.
• Schools are providing ongoing communication with families to make effective adjustments where necessary.
• Senior leadership from both school boards have been on-site at local schools to monitor disruption impacts and get reports from principals, vice-principals, and teachers on what more can be done for a safer and more efficient process.

WHAT STUDENTS, FAMILIES, AND THE PUBLIC CAN DO:

• Families can expect delays in dropping off and picking up students; in some cases there could be lengthy delays. Please be patient, and plan accordingly to ensure timely and safe pickups and drop-offs, for students and staff.
• When arriving at a school, pay attention to directions from staff and please understand they are doing their best to keep all students safe.
• All drivers should be aware that there may be more students walking or cycling to school. Take extra caution when driving near schools, especially in areas where there are no sidewalks.
• The public can expect additional traffic congestion around schools. Please review alternative routes and avoid driving through school areas whenever possible, especially if you are not picking up or dropping off students.
• Be aware there may be additional police or by-law officers around school areas. Please follow their directions when asked to help keep students safe.

Thank you for your support and understanding as we make adjustments during the ongoing disruption.

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Media Release_ Renfrew County School Boards Outline Steps for Safe Student Arrivals and Departures (1)