08/26/2026
Strathcona County, Alta. –
As students return to school for the 2026-2027 school year, Strathcona County RCMP, in partnership with Strathcona County Enforcement Services, are reminding drivers, students and families to slow down, stay alert and help keep our school communities safe.
The speed limit in school zones in Strathcona County is 30 km/hour on school days between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. With increased traffic and more pedestrians around schools, everyone has a role to play in making the return to school a safe one.
Tips for drivers:
Give yourself extra time. Expect increased traffic and allow for possible delays around schools.
Watch for pedestrians. More children will be walking, biking and being dropped off in school areas.
Slow down. Reduce your speed and pay attention to school-zone signs and posted speed limits.
Stop for school buses. When a school bus is displaying flashing red lights and an extended stop arm, traffic in both directions must stop. You may only proceed once the lights stop flashing.
Give school buses plenty of room. School buses stop frequently, so leave extra space and be prepared for sudden stops.
Follow all signage. Do not stop or drop off students in a no-stopping zone, and do not park in a no-parking zone. These areas may be needed by school buses and other school vehicles to safely load and unload students.
Drive predictably. Avoid passing other vehicles, U-turns and three-point turns in school zones and near crosswalks.
Stay focused. Put away distractions and keep your attention on the road and the people around you.
Tips for students:
Plan your route. Know your walking or biking route to school before the first day.
Stay alert. Put away cell phones and other electronic devices and remove earbuds when crossing roads so you can hear approaching traffic.
Use designated crossings. Cross at intersections, crosswalks or with the assistance of a crossing guard.
Make sure vehicles have stopped before crossing. Whenever possible, make eye contact with drivers before entering the roadway, even when you have the walk signal.
Avoid walking between parked vehicles. Cutting through parked cars or using parking lots as shortcuts can make it harder for drivers to see you.
“As we head into another school year, we’re asking everyone to slow down, pay attention and be aware of those around them,” says Constable Cheri-Lee Smith, Strathcona County RCMP Community Policing. “Whether you’re driving, walking or biking, we all have a part to play in keeping our school zones and neighbourhoods safe.”
Strathcona County RCMP and Strathcona County Enforcement Services wish students, families, staff and the entire community a safe and successful start to the 2026-2027 school year!