Las Vegas officials are planning to implement crossing guards at middle and select high schools after initially not including them in safety measures. This decision follows the successful addition of crossing guards in Clark County, Henderson, and North Las Vegas middle schools, which led to a significant drop in student-involved crashes.
The proposal, if approved, would allocate an extra $415,000 for crossing guards at 16 middle schools and three high schools within Las Vegas city limits. This is on top of the $2.87 million already spent on guards at 72 elementary schools. The focus will initially be on middle schools in hazardous traffic areas, with plans to eventually cover all 16 middle schools.
A pilot program at Cimarron-Memorial High School and Gibson Middle School indicated that crossing guards improved compliance with traffic laws. However, crashes near schools increased overall, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures. High-risk schools identified include Garside Middle School, Palo Verde High School, and Arbor View High School.
If the funding is secured, the program will continue at the high school level, with plans to expand further based on available resources. This initiative represents a significant step towards improving student safety in Las Vegas.