As many of us know, the drive to and from GVA North during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal can sometimes be frustrating. Most traffic concerns are not intentional and often result from simply not knowing the expectations or being in a hurry.
To help prevent confusion, traffic violations, and unnecessary delays, please review the following reminders:
- School zone speed limit: 20 MPH
- Speed limit on school grounds: 10 MPH
- Do not block the intersection on Grant Drive.
- Do not talk and text while driving
- Cell phone zones, do not use a handheld device while actively dropping off or picking up students.
- All vehicle occupants should wear seat belts.
- Do not park in our neighboring business parking lots. These are private parking lots and are not designated for school parking, drop-off, or pickup.
- Please watch for and follow directions from school staff managing traffic, including while on school grounds.
We encourage all families to use the vehicle drop-off and pickup system we have established. Families who choose to park and walk their children to the main entrance should be aware that traffic must be temporarily stopped at the crosswalks, which can add additional time to the overall traffic flow.
Important Afternoon Pickup Information
- Please do not arrive before 2:00 PM to line up or park for afternoon pickup. Vehicles arriving before 2:00 PM may interfere with outdoor classes, recess, and other school activities. If you arrive early, School Security will ask you to leave school grounds and return at 2:30 PM.
- The Yellow Zone lineup begins on school grounds near the crosswalk and white and orange barrier marked “OOPS, You’re Late.”
- The Green Zone lineup begins on Grant Drive.
- Both zones will begin moving forward at approximately 2:30 PM.
Early dismissal ends at 2:45 PM. After 2:45 PM, parents/guardians will need to wait for students to be released outside at the main entrance, Door A1, during regular dismissal.
I have also been in contact with the Thornton Police Department regarding having a presence during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal. Please do not be alarmed if you see officers or patrol vehicles parked on or near school grounds. Their presence is intended to support traffic safety around our school community.
Thank you for your patience, cooperation, and continued support in helping keep our students, staff, families, and neighboring businesses safe.
Welcome back, and stay safe,
Leonard “Leo” Govea
Campus Security Officer