School zone safety has become a growing concern at Shadow Ridge High School after several tragic traffic collisions in the community this year. Assistant Principal, Joyce Fowlie reminded families that whether walking, driving, or riding a bike or scooter, everyone plays a role in keeping roads safe. For drivers, Nevada law sets clear rules during school zone hours, which are in effect 30 minutes before classes begin and 30 minutes after dismissal.
During those times, it is illegal to make a U-turn, exceed the posted speed limit, or pass another vehicle, even if that vehicle has slowed or stopped. Parking or stopping within 20 feet of a crosswalk is also prohibited. Drivers may not stop in the middle of the road or at red curbs to pick up or drop off passengers. These restrictions are designed to reduce congestion and protect students as they arrive and leave campus.
Pedestrians and cyclists also share responsibility for safety. Visibility and attentiveness are essential. Those crossing the street are encouraged to stop and check for traffic in both directions, make eye contact and wave to drivers, and watch for vehicles that may be hidden behind others. Crossing should take place only at intersections or marked crosswalks.
Cyclists and scooter riders are reminded to follow the same precautions, staying alert and predictable in their movements. Distractions pose risks for everyone. While distracted driving is illegal, distracted walking can also be dangerous. A person focused on a phone or other device may fail to notice approaching traffic or obstacles in their path. Remaining alert and predictable helps reduce accidents and ensures safer travel for all. The renewed focus on traffic safety at Shadow Ridge reflects a broader effort across the Las Vegas area to protect young people.
School officials emphasize that safety is not the responsibility of one group alone. Drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists must all remain aware of their surroundings and follow established rules.
As Fowlie explained, “Simple choices, like slowing down or waiting an extra moment at a crosswalk, can prevent tragedies and keep our students safe.”
Students at Shadow are also echoing this message. Everest Castle, a student at SRHS, shared his own approach saying, “I look both ways on the road about 5 times then start crossing then look both ways 5 more times while crossing.” His words highlight the caution that can make a real difference in preventing accidents.
Marissa Spjut, another Shadow Ridge student, added her perspective, “The way I try to stay safe on the streets around school is to make sure I stay on the sidewalk when I can and use the crosswalks. If I ever need to get across the street and there isn’t a crosswalk I make sure to watch the cars around me before I cross, waiting for the road to either be clear or see the driver’s signal for me to walk across so I know they are waiting and I can go on ahead and cross the street.”
By reinforcing these guidelines, Shadow Ridge High School hopes to encourage families to take small but meaningful steps, slowing down, using crosswalks, and avoiding distractions that collectively make a significant difference.
