Colorado Springs schools rank among worst for school zone safety
A new survey gives Colorado a ‘C-‘ grade when it comes to safety in school zones.
One of the worst school zones in Colorado Springs is in front of Centennial Elementary School, which sits right along Chelton Road.
But that’s just one of the many reasons this school was given an ‘F’ by a new survey and is ranked 247th out of 249 in the county.
We all know what we’re supposed to do when we see flashing lights and signs near schools. But not everyone follows the law.
“The speeders are really bad. It’s crazy and very dangerous. Not only for kids but for people crossing the street,” said Jerry Needham.
People who live near school zones see it all the time but now a new survey by a safety firm called Zen Drive pinpoints some of the most dangerous spots in the country.
Arapahoe County is the worst in the state, but El Paso County isn’t much better.
“People just don’t pay attention, they’re just me, me, me and going fast, fast, fast,” Needham said.
The report says speed isn’t the only factor contributing to the low grade.
It also reflects acceleration, hard brakes and phone use.
The five worst zones in the county: Keller Elementary, Russell Middle School, Pikes Peak School of Expeditionary Learning, Banning Lewis Ranch Academy and Centennial Elementary.
Sara Comeau has four kids who attend some of the schools considered to be in the most dangerous.
“They’re my life. If something were to happen to them I don’t know what I would do,” she said.
According to the report, the most dangerous times for kids are between 7 and 8 in the morning and 3 to 4 in the afternoon. The times kids are going to and from school.
Some parents are already taking measures.
“My kids wait about 20 to 30 minutes after school gets out to come home. Because it’s safer. There is not as many cars and people having road rage,” Comeau said.
After all, traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for school-aged children.
If you’d like to see how your school ranks, visit the interactive map here.
