Aug. 5, 2024

Dear Parents/Guardians:

As we approach the start of the school year, and with the changes in our transportation plan, we know there will be an increase in students walking or riding bikes to and from school. We want to provide some important information and tips for the safety of our hikers and bikers.

• Heightened security: CFPD and Harris County Precincts 4 and 5 Constables will have expanded patrols near campuses.
• School zones: The county is increasing the time in which school zones will be in effect this school year to 45 minutes before school starts. Afternoon school zones will remain at 30 minutes after school concludes.
• Crosswalks: Most elementary campuses will have a designated crosswalk at their main entry to the campus that will be staffed by CFISD crossing guards.
• Volunteers: Neighborhoods that are interested in organizing volunteers to be trained to monitor additional intersections in their community should contact their HOA/MUD, who will coordinate training with CFPD.

Tips for parents of walkers/bikers:

• Plan and practice your path to school before the first day.
• Get to know your neighbors.
• Identify friends and houses along the way where you know someone.
• Coordinate with friends or neighbors and walk/ride in groups.
• Remind your child/children not to talk to strangers or accept rides from someone they don’t know.
• Always wear a helmet when riding a bike.
• Choose the most direct way and, when possible, include a crosswalk with crossing guards as you enter the campus.
• Know what time your school opens its doors.

If you have an area in your neighborhood or path to school that you think should be identified as an additional crosswalk or have a specific traffic concern, please contact CFPD at police@cfisd.net or 832-237-CFPD, and your concern will be reviewed and evaluated by CFPD. If we all work together in the community, we can ensure our students get to and from school safely each day.

Chief Mendez Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Chief of Police