Wenatchee School District launches ‘Slower is Safer’ campaign to promote student traffic safety

WENATCHEE — As the school year begins, the Wenatchee School District is rolling out a new campaign to slow traffic and improve safety in school zones.

The district announced Thursday that it is partnering with local law enforcement and the Washington Traffic Safety Commission’s Target Zero program to promote safer driving near bus stops, crosswalks and pedestrian corridors.

The effort includes the launch of “Slower is Safer,” a yard sign campaign designed to remind motorists to reduce speeds around schools and neighborhoods. The message is part of Target Zero’s statewide strategy to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries.

“The safety of our students is paramount,” Wenatchee School District Superintendent Kory Kalahar said in a statement. “We're hopeful these yard signs will remind drivers to slow down near bus stops, crosswalks, and in school zones.”

Yard signs will be placed around Wenatchee school zones as students return to classrooms. District officials said the campaign will run alongside high-visibility enforcement, with law enforcement agencies focusing on speeding, seatbelt use and distracted driving in school zones.

The district said the initiative is part of a broader community effort to encourage safe driving habits and reduce risks for children walking, biking or riding to school.