BOISE, ID – Governor Brad Little has proclaimed the week of September 7 as Idaho School Zone Safety Week, an effort supported by AAA Idaho and the Idaho Association of School Resource Officers (IDASRO) to keep students safe as the school year continues.

“School zones require drivers to slow down and watch for children on their way to and from school, but anytime kids and vehicles share the same space, it can be risky,” said AAA Idaho Public Affairs Director Matthew Conde. “As drivers, we take the lead in keeping others safe.”

The campaign offers reminders for both drivers and students. Motorists are urged to look for signage and flashing lights that mark school zones, obey crossing guards, and never pass a stopped school bus with flashing lights. Drivers are also encouraged to avoid residential neighborhoods and eliminate distractions whenever possible.

Students are advised to use crosswalks instead of darting between cars, step back from the road while waiting at bus stops, and wait until the bus has come to a complete stop before boarding or exiting. Helmets are strongly recommended for children traveling by bicycle, scooter, or skateboard.

Parents may also consider organizing a “walking school bus,” in which adults take turns accompanying groups of children to and from school.

“As the days grow shorter, bright clothing, backpack lights, and reflectors are a big help,” Conde added. “We ask drivers, including our newest group of young drivers, to keep safety top of mind. Every child deserves a safe and successful school year, and no one wants to jeopardize that.”

AAA Idaho is affiliated with AAA Oregon/Idaho, serving 900,000 members with travel, insurance, financial, and automotive services.