As the lazy days of summer come to a close and the school bells start ringing once again, London is abuzz with the excitement of a new school year. Whether you’re a parent sending off your little one to their first day of kindergarten or you’re a student yourself heading back to the classroom, there’s a certain magic in the air that only September can bring.

But with the start of school comes the need for a few reminders to help keep our community safe and supportive. Here’s what we can all do to make sure everyone—from the smallest elementary school student to the most seasoned university scholar—has a smooth and successful start to the year.

School Zone Safety

One of the most important things we can do as a community is to keep our streets safe, especially around schools. The first few weeks back are a time of adjustment, and young students may be more distracted than usual.

A few gentle reminders for drivers:

Slow Down: School zones have reduced speed limits for a reason. Those few extra minutes could make all the difference.

Stop for School Buses: When the red lights on a school bus are flashing, it's not just a recommendation—it's the law to stop. Our children’s safety depends on it. School buses are equipped with a stop-sign arm on the driver’s side that swings out when the bus stops, displaying a standard stop sign with alternating red flashing lights at the top and bottom. These signals are your cue to come to a complete stop. Stay put until the stop-sign arm folds away and all the lights have stopped flashing.

Ignoring this law is not only dangerous but also comes with serious consequences. Failing to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights can result in a fine ranging from $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points for a first offense. A second conviction within five years can lead to fines between $1,000 and $4,000, six demerit points, and even up to six months in jail. In Ontario, school bus drivers and other witnesses are empowered to report vehicles that illegally pass a stopped school bus. Let’s all do our part to keep our kids safe.

Keep an Eye Out for Crossing Guards: They’re out there to protect our children, so please respect their signals.

Public Transportation Awareness

If you or your child is taking the bus, it’s important to brush up on some basic safety tips. The London Transit Commission (LTC) is a reliable way to get around, but everyone needs to do their part to ensure it stays that way.

For a smooth ride:

Arrive Early: Getting to the bus stop a little early helps avoid the rush and ensures a calm start to the day.

Stay Back from the Curb: It’s safer to wait until the bus has come to a complete stop before stepping forward.

Be Respectful: Whether you’re a student or a regular rider, being courteous to drivers and fellow passengers makes the journey better for everyone.

Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety

Many students are fortunate enough to walk or bike to school. It’s a healthy and environmentally friendly option, but safety should always come first.

To keep everyone safe:

Use Crosswalks: Teach your children to cross at designated spots and look both ways, even if the light is green.

Wear a Helmet: Helmets are a must for biking. They’re one of the simplest ways to prevent serious injury.

Be Seen: Especially in the early morning or late afternoon, wearing bright or reflective clothing can help drivers spot you.

Supporting Local Schools

London is known for its strong sense of community, and our local schools are at the heart of it. There are so many ways to get involved and support the next generation of Londoners.

Here’s how you can help:

Volunteer Your Time: Schools are always in need of extra hands, whether it’s in the classroom, at events, or for extracurricular activities.

Donate Supplies: Every little bit helps. Pens, notebooks, or even sports equipment can make a big difference to a school’s resources.

Sponsor a Program: If you’re a local business owner, consider sponsoring a school event or program. It’s a wonderful way to give back to the community.

Support Local Businesses

With the influx of students returning to London, there’s a noticeable uptick in activity around our local shops, restaurants, and services. Supporting these businesses doesn’t just keep them thriving—it helps sustain the local economy and builds a stronger community spirit.

Why it matters:

Economic Boost: Students and their families bring additional business to the area, helping local entrepreneurs succeed.

Sense of Belonging: By supporting locals, you’re contributing to a vibrant, interconnected community where everyone feels like they belong.

Cultural Exchange

London’s student population is incredibly diverse, and that diversity is one of the city’s greatest strengths. Engaging with students from different backgrounds can lead to meaningful connections and broaden our understanding of the world.

How to foster cultural exchange:

Attend Community Events: Many local events and festivals celebrate our city's rich cultural tapestry. Attend, learn, and connect.

Open Dialogues: Creating spaces for open discussions about different cultures, experiences, and perspectives can lead to greater empathy and mutual respect.

Welcome Students: A simple gesture like welcoming new students to the neighbourhood can make a big difference and set the tone for positive interactions.

Noise and Activity Levels

With the excitement of the new school year, particularly in areas close to colleges and universities, noise and activity levels may increase. Patience and understanding from residents can go a long way in maintaining a harmonious living environment.

Tips for managing the buzz:

Communicate: If noise levels are disruptive, a friendly conversation can often resolve the issue without conflict.

Be Patient: Remember, this time of year is an adjustment for everyone. A little patience can foster goodwill between students and residents.

Get Involved: Joining neighbourhood associations or local groups can help you stay informed and engaged with what’s happening in your community.

Mental Health Awareness

Starting a new school year can be a big transition, and it’s not uncommon for students (and parents) to feel a bit anxious. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and London has some great resources to support families.

Resources to consider:

Western University and Fanshawe College provide mental health services for their students, including counseling and wellness programs.

School-Based Support: Many elementary and secondary schools in London have counselors and support staff available to help students navigate their feelings and concerns.

Community Programs: Organizations like Mindyourmind and the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) offer fantastic resources for anyone who needs a little extra support.

Talk About It: Sometimes, the best thing you can do is simply talk—whether it’s with your child, a friend, or a professional.

Let’s make this school year the best yet. Share this post with your neighbours, friends, and family to spread the word. If you have any tips or ideas on how to make the back-to-school transition smoother, leave a comment below.

We’re all in this together, and we can make a difference!

Back-to-School: Safety & Support for a Successful Year