A Note on Parking Lot Safety

Dear Parents and Guardians of St. Charles Borromeo School,

As we approach the end of each school day, I would like to bring an important safety reminder to your attention regarding student dismissal and the transition from the school building to the parking lot.

During dismissal, it is especially important that we work together to maintain a safe and controlled school environment. With many students, families, and vehicles moving through the parking lot at the same time, there are increased opportunities for accidents to occur.

Please keep your children close to you at all times while in the parking lot.

Children should not be permitted to run freely, walk ahead of adults, or move between parked or moving vehicles. Even when drivers are traveling slowly, they may be distracted or may not see a child who unexpectedly moves into their path.

As parents and guardians, one of the best ways we can protect our children is by practicing awareness and safe listening skills:

• Keep your eyes up and watch what is happening around you.

• Listen carefully for moving vehicles and directions from adults.

• Have children stay close to a parent, guardian, or supervising adult.

• Walk—do not run—in the parking lot.

• Wait for an adult before moving between vehicles or crossing traffic areas.

Please remember the familiar saying:

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

This means it is much easier to prevent a problem or injury than to deal with its consequences afterward.

Our children depend on the adults around them to provide a safe environment. By remaining attentive, keeping children close, and modeling safe behavior, we can help make dismissal a safe and orderly experience for everyone.

Thank you for your cooperation, your attention to safety, and your continued partnership in protecting our children.

Sincerely,

Deacon Joseph Rafferty, Principal St. Charles Borromeo School