August 20, 2021

Village of Palmetto Bay

Yesterday afternoon, Mayor Cunningham along with Manager Marano met with the Miami-Dade County Public Schools District Police Department and the Palmetto Bay Policing Unit to discuss their plans to ensure a smooth day back to school this Monday, August 23rd.

Among the items discussed were the plans from both units to assign additional officers to assist with the first week of class. School district police will pull officers from their headquarters and our Palmetto Bay unit will assign detectives to our public schools with the goal of increasing visibility and police presence at the schools. Last year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, schools were largely underpopulated with many students participating virtually and only a handful physically attending school. This year, all students are returning to school buildings after an 18-month hiatus. Our Palmetto Bay Policing Unit is prepared with a contingency plan in the event additional resources are needed beyond the first week of school.

Our priority, and that of the school district, is to ensure the safety of the students. To that extent, the school district wants to encourage parents to take advantage the drop-off and pick-up locations at each school rather than parking and walking the kids to the front of the building, which can be dangerous given the limited parking and the increased traffic around the schools. Police and school staff will be present to assist in keeping vehicles moving in a safe manner. Parents who are not familiar with the drop-off and pick-up procedures at their child's school are encouraged to inquire with the school site administration for details.

We would like to take this opportunity to give you the following important reminders:

• Miami-Dade County Public Schools is requiring for all children to be masked at school. It is always a good idea to pack additional masks for your child. You can read other school district safety protocols here.

• If you are using your golf cart to transport your child, please make sure to read the laws governing these types of vehicles.

• Remember to observe all school zone speed limits and to keep your attention on the road. Once again, our priority is the safety of the children.

• If traveling to the South Dadeland Metrorail Station, remember that our I-Bus is available to take you there from the St. Richards/ Holy Rosary Park and Ride. See the I-Bus schedule.

• Howard Drive/ SW 136th Street remains under construction. Parents are encouraged to use the drop-off/ pick-up areas for Howard Drive Elementary and avoid parking on the swales which may have construction debris. Our police will be directing school traffic in the area.

• Please observe the "no parking" signs along certain residential swales.

• And remember to leave with plenty of extra time in the morning!

Following the meeting, Mayor Cunningham offered a brief message yesterday in the video below recapping the items discussed and providing other useful information for parents. Please click below to watch the short video.

Following a year and a half of so much uncertainty and separation, we are excited that our children will be returning to school and are looking forward to a wonderful school experience for the students, teachers, school staff, parents, and administrators!

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