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Schools

Second Graders at Stanley School Hit the Streets

Successful implementation of safety programs netted school $1,000.

Stanley School second graders donned red and orange vests and went out into the car-filled streets last Friday.

Yes, they were accompanied by adults.

The walk was part of the WalkSafe Program, which is the Massachusetts chapter of the national Safe Routes to School Program, designed to encourage kids to walk to school and to walk safely.

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The safety messages were clear and demonstrated along the way.

“We stop before we cross the street.” 

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“We cross a street together. Say the word.”

“Now!” the students said in unison, and they crossed.

“We don’t stop in the middle of the road, even if you drop something!”

 Organized by gym teacher Katherine Pascitto and implemented by the Safety Committee of Stanley’s PTA, led by Safety Officer Stephanie Benevento, the event is one of five throughout the year which encourage safe walking.

Tips for safe walking were also sent home to parents.

Stanley School is one of only four schools in Massachusetts to successfully implement the national program, Safe Routes to School, earning an award for “Outstanding Safe Routes Champion.”

Not merely a nice piece of paper, the award came with $1000, which was used to revamp the area around the school to make it safer for walkers.

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