Students return for start of 2026-2027 school year

LEDUC -- Tomorrow marks the first day of the 2026-2027 school year for students across the Black Gold School Division.

As students head back to class, the Leduc RCMP are reminding parents, caregivers, and motorists to use extra caution in and around school drop-off areas. This comes in an effort to increase traffic safety in areas around schools for both students and staff. 

"The start of a new school year brings increased traffic around schools, with more vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and school buses sharing the road," said Cst. Lindsay Grant. "Busy drop-off areas can become congested quickly, and drivers are reminded that a few extra seconds can help prevent a collision."

Cst. Grant encourages motorists to obey all no-parking, no-stopping, and designated drop-off zone signs, as well as directions from school staff or traffic-control personnel. She notes that children may move unpredictably and can be difficult to see between vehicles. 

"Slow down and watch carefully for pedestrians and cyclists," said Grant. "Avoid stopping in travel lanes, crosswalks, intersections, bus zones, or other areas where stopping is prohibited."

With congestion expected during busy drop-off and pick-up times, motorists are asked to avoid aggressive driving or unsafe maneuvers to get around other vehicles. Whenever possible, parents dropping off students should consider having children exit onto the sidewalk or curb side rather than into traffic.

For the 2026-2027 school year, parents can contact the Black Gold School Division for this year's full calendar, as well as information about transportation and school supply lists.