17,000 Local Children Head Back to Pasadena Unified Schools on Monday Morning

The Pasadena Unified School District is expecting around 17,000 students to head back to its 28 schools Monday, August 15, as the 2016-2017 academic year kicks off.

As thousands of children will be biking, crossing the streets and filling sidewalks on their way to school, the Pasadena Police Department is reminding the public to be more alert and attentive Monday.

“Like in years past, this year the Pasadena Police Department will have motor officers giving extra service patrol to the various schools in the district,” Pasadena Police Chief Phillip Sanchez said. “Expect to see an increased presence of police near and around our schools.”

Lt. Vasken Gourdikian said drivers or parents of school children should always give themselves ample time to reach their destination.

“Most often, speed is the leading factor for collisions as this is a result of not planning ahead,” Gourdikian said. “We encourage drivers to pay particular attention for children and pedestrians especially in school zones. Driver safety and speed limits in designated school zones will be enforced, this week in particular.”

Gourdikian said parents should make sure that they adhere to crosswalks and look both ways before crossing the streets. Motorists should also pay close attention to school buses.

“Remember, when the red lights flash drivers following buses must stop and yield to the bus,” Gourdikian said. “Lastly I would encourage all our drivers to please stay off their mobile devices and not be distracted while driving. It is in everyone’s best interest if we pay attention to what’s going on around us.”

“We are excited to welcome students and families to the new school year, which promises to ignite creativity by engaging children and youth in a rich area of learning opportunities,” Pasadena Unified Superintendent Brian McDonald says in a message to the public.

The district issued a message reminding students, families and neighbors to safely share the roads with school buses, pedestrians, and bicyclists.