Back to School: A Safe Start to the School Year

With many students returning to classrooms on Tuesday, September 8, the District of Sooke wishes students, families, teachers, school staff and everyone supporting our local schools a safe, positive and successful 2026–27 school year! 

The return to school also means busier roads, sidewalks and neighbourhoods, particularly during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up times. Whether driving, walking, cycling, or rolling, everyone is encouraged to allow a little extra time, be patient, and watch carefully for one another. 

Take Extra Care Around Schools 

Drivers are reminded to slow down in school zones, follow posted signage and traffic-control directions, and expect increased pedestrian, cyclist and vehicle activity around school sites. 

Families are also encouraged to reinforce safe crossing habits with students. Before entering a crosswalk:

• Stop at the edge of the road.
• Look in all directions for approaching vehicles and cyclists.
• Make sure vehicles have stopped, and it is safe to cross before proceeding.
• Continue looking and remain aware while crossing. 

Having the right-of-way does not replace the need to make sure other road users have seen you. Drivers and cyclists approaching crossings should likewise slow down, remain alert, and be prepared to stop. Safe travel is a shared responsibility. 

Allow Extra Time Around Construction Areas 

This school year also begins while construction activity is occurring in some areas used by students and families. Please watch for changing traffic patterns, construction vehicles, workers and temporary traffic-control measures, and follow directions from traffic-control personnel. 

In particular:

• The Province’s Highway 14–Idlemore Intersection Improvement Project is taking place near Saseenos Elementary School. Residents who regularly travel through the area are encouraged to subscribe to the Ministry of Transportation and Transit’s project information page for updates at gov.bc.ca/highway14idlemore.
• Bayshore Development frontage improvements are continuing across from Sooke Elementary School until October 15. Families and other road users should expect construction activity in the area and allow additional time when travelling to and from the school and accessing the site from Highway 14. 

Construction may also affect nearby transit stops or travel times. Transit users are encouraged to check with BC Transit for current stop information, service notices and schedules before travelling. 

With several school-area routes experiencing construction or increased activity, everyone is encouraged to plan ahead, allowing extra time and using extra caution when traveling through these areas.