VALRICO - Getting to class at Cimino Elementary could be an accident waiting to happen.
Members of the Bloomingdale community long have voiced concerns about traffic and safety at Cimino. Traffic around the school on Culbreath Road backs up in both directions, and crossing guards have reported that jams result in dangerous conditions for children.
In the past, county traffic engineers have rejected requests to install a three-way stop at the intersection of Nature's Way and Culbreath Road, because the site didn't meet guidelines. They also rebuffed eliminating left turns south on Culbreath into the school during the morning and afternoon, which could send additional traffic to Golf Manor Boulevard.
The Sheriff's Office's Bloomingdale Area Community Council will address the ongoing safety issue on Thursday at its regular monthly meeting. The council meets at 7 p.m. at the Bloomingdale Community Station at 4342 Bell Shoals Road in Valrico.
Acting Cimino principal Deborah Tallet will attend. Organizers have asked Commissioner Ronda Storms or a representative from her office to attend.
Sessums fifth-graders walk for fun and learning
RIVERVIEW - Nearly 200 Sessums Elementary fifth-graders participated in International Walk to School Day on Oct. 6, by joining in a "Fun Walk" through Rivercrest community.
The 2-mile walk started in front of the school just after 8 a.m. and lasted nearly two hours.
"We are taking this year to teach children safe walking behaviors, such as proper crossing at crosswalks, as well as encouraging adult safe driving behavior near schools," said Melissa Barbato, Sessums physical education teacher.
Not only were students instructed on safety, but one of the main purposes of taking the walk was to promote health and concern for the environment.
