Policy & funding
Is there a precedent for using SRTS funds to install a new water fountain outside a school building?
Can SRTS funds be used for infrastructure in the construction of a new school?
According to federal guidelines, potential infrastructure projects that some States have used for existing SRTS or related programs include:
Is it the schools responsibility to ensure the students' safety on their walk to school? If so, what is the regulation/code covering the school's responsibility?
Liability for student safety is a complex issue. How school districts
interpret their liability can vary. There is no federal law or code
that applies to all school districts.
Can Safe Routes to Schools grants be awarded to projects focused on high schools and junior high schools?
The federal SRTS program is aimed at grades K-8 so that excludes high schools, but may encompass some of the grades typically found in a junior high school. For more on the grade restrictions and the geographic area around a school please see the SRTS federal guidelines.
Can a child be denied bus service by the school?
Pupil transportation decisions and policies are typically made at the school district level or the state level. The best person to contact is your school district's pupil transportation coordinator. This individual should be able to explain your school's busing decision-making processes.
What are the restrictions on building a school next to a highway?
Site selection for new school buildings is managed at a local level of government. School boards may have guidelines on where schools can be built, how large the campus needs to be and what is considered appropriate and supportive land uses for the site. State education departments may also have standards and guidelines for new school site selection. There are no federal standards or guidelines for school site selection.