Wenatchee School District urges drivers to slow down as spring activity rises

WENATCHEE — As spring brings longer days and warmer weather, Wenatchee School District officials are urging drivers to slow down and stay alert in school zones.

District leaders say the seasonal shift leads to more students walking and biking to school, along with increased activity at parks and athletic fields, raising the risk of pedestrian and cyclist injuries.

The added foot and bicycle traffic is especially noticeable during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal times, when students are most likely to be traveling to and from school.

School officials are asking drivers to take extra care in these areas by observing posted school zone speed limits and coming to a complete stop at crosswalks, remaining stopped until children have fully crossed the street.

Drivers are also urged to eliminate distractions, particularly mobile phones, and to stay alert for children who may enter the roadway unexpectedly. Officials said young pedestrians can be unpredictable, especially in busy areas near schools and parks.

In addition, motorists should yield to cyclists and provide adequate space when passing, as more students and families take advantage of improved weather conditions to travel by bike.

District leaders said keeping students safe requires a shared effort across the community.

“Our children deserve to walk to school and play outside without fear,” Superintendent Kory Kalahar said. “We’re asking drivers to give them that gift — slow down, pay attention, and arrive a minute later if it means everyone gets home safely.”

Officials emphasized that while safety is a year-round responsibility, the increase in outdoor activity during the spring months makes awareness especially important.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media