Dear Chatham Middle School families,
The safety of our students is of utmost importance, and we would like to remind our families to put safety first when dropping off or picking up your children. We have observed a notable increase in unsafe traffic practices in the area of Chatham Middle School during arrival and dismissal times.
Please remember to drop students off on the Middle School side of Woodbridge Avenue at the curb in front of the school. While we understand it can be busy, and vehicles may be lined up, it is important that drivers practice patience and wait their turn to drop off/pick up in the designated area.
To avoid creating an unsafe situation, please:
Do not double park.
Do not allow your child to exit from the travel lane side of your vehicle.
Do not drop students on the far side of the street and have them cross the road.
Do not make U-turns.
Drive slowly and keep an eye out for pedestrians, particularly those who may be entering the roadway from between parked cars.
By following these precautions, we can greatly reduce the risk of an accident and help our children get to and from school in the safest manner possible.
The Village of Chatham will be installing signage on Woodbridge Avenue to bring attention to these concerns, and local law enforcement will be stepping up traffic patrols in the area.
Again, the safety of our children is of the utmost importance and the responsibility of all of us. We greatly appreciate your attention to the matter.
Sincerely,
Sal DeAngelo
Superintendent of Schools