Kingsville mayor dons vest in name of student safety

By Pat Bailey

It was a step back in time for Kingsville Mayor Nelson Santos.

On Wednesday morning he slipped on a fluorescent safety vest, picked up the hand-held 'stop' sign and headed to the corner near St. John de Brebeuf School.

With the safety of the students in the forefront of his mind, Santos led the group of Grade 4 and 5 students to the intersection of Mill and Spruce Streets — reminiscent of his time as a member of the bus patrol, back in the day, when he was a student at St. John's.

Santos was helping launch a new initiative, Active and Safe Routes to School, presented about two years ago to County Council by representatives of the Windsor Essex County Health Unit, and was taking the youngsters along the route deemed safest for their travel to and from school.

Carolie Walters, R.N. public health nurse, the program was launched to encourage youngsters to forego the bus ride or car ride in favor of a little extra physical activity — but to ensure they walk to and from school safely.

Walters said only 15 to 20% of Canadian student walk to school today, in comparison to nearly 50% in the 70s.

She said they formed a coalition of sorts to address issues that could prove to be barriers preventing youngsters from making the trek to and from school on foot — such as the lack of sidewalks, the lack of crossing guards, heavy traffic or criminal activity.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.