A phased return to the classroom for State Government school students will begin this morning, 26 May, which means an increase in road, foot and bicycle traffic across the Cardinia Shire is expected.
The Department of Transport (DOT) is warning people that speed zones are currently in operation around schools at drop off and pick up times to create a safe environment for students.
Some school speed zones are permanent, while others operate from 8am to 9.30am and from 2.30pm to 4pm on weekdays until the end of Term 2, 26 June.
Motorists are urged to be patient, stick to the school speed zone limits and take extra care when driving around schools and allow students to cross the road safely.
All public transport services will continue to operate as normal to help students returning to classes to get to and from school.
“We’re cleaning high touch surfaces regularly and deep-cleaning trains, trams and buses every night,” a DOT spokesperson said.
“To keep everyone safe, there will be a number of changes to drop-off times and access to school sites.
“Please follow advice from your local school regarding drop-off and pick-up arrangements.”
Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about travelling safely by practicing good hand hygiene and cough etiquette, keeping their distance when they can, respecting the clearance zone around bus drivers and not travelling if they’re unwell.
For more information on safety measures and the staged return to on-site schooling dates: education.vic.gov.au.
