MID VALLEY PUBLICATIONS

November 1, 2006

Denair Elementary School, along with agencies from Stanislaus County and the California Highway Patrol held their annual “Walk to School Day,” on Friday, October 20. About 400 students along with some of their parents walked to the elementary school from two different locations in Denair.

The purpose of this event is to instill pedestrian safety in the minds of school children. The walk is coordinated by the school with assistance from the Sheriff’s Office, Public Works, CHP and the Safe Communities Coalition.

The children walked from the Senior Center in the downtown area, to the elementary school on Lester Road. During the trek, the students had to cross Santa Fe Avenue, the main road or highway through town, then cross the Amtrak/Burlington Northern railroad tracks. Personnel from BNSF were on hand at the railroad crossing to pass out information on railroad safety.

The students were led by School Principal Gary Jones, with community Service Officer Maralee Clifton bringing up the rear. The procession was escorted by Deputy DeForest from the Sheriff’s office and Officers Brian Gant and Tom Killian from the Highway Patrol.

During the walk, the kids were instructed to watch for potential dangers to pedestrians such as dogs, blind intersections and other hazards. They were also given information about traffic safety signs and devices.

Participating students received bicycle helmets and safety pads that were provided by local service organizations. Memorial Hospital of Modesto donated helmets to the students. Two bicycles were also donated to the cause, one each for girls and boys. The school had drawing for the bikes and the winners were Adam Dornan, a second grader and Alyssa King, a third grade student at Denair Elementary.