“Watch for Me OK” Urges Drivers to Slow Down in School Zones as Students Return

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — With kids back in classrooms across the state, the Watch for Me OK safety initiative is ramping up public outreach to reduce pedestrian deaths and make school zones safer for families.

Why the campaign matters

The Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) backs the campaign as part of a statewide push to lower pedestrian fatalities. Data from Smart Growth America shows 168 pedestrian deaths in Oklahoma City from 2018–2022 — a number officials say is preventable with better driver behavior and infrastructure.

What Watch for Me OK is asking drivers to do

• Slow down and obey posted school zone speeds all day when school is in session

• Stop for school buses when the stop arm is extended and red lights flash

• Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and watch for children near parked cars

• Avoid distractions — put phones away while driving near schools

“Every life saved starts with drivers slowing down and paying attention,” an ACOG spokesperson said.

How communities and parents can help

• Volunteer as crossing guards or support school safety patrols

• Encourage schools to apply for Safe Routes to School grants to improve sidewalks and crosswalks

• Share campaign messages on social media and neighborhood groups

Where enforcement is already stepping up

Some districts, like Moore, continue to operate school zone flashing lights and increased enforcement throughout school hours to deter speeding and prevent tragedies.

Radio Oklahoma News Network urges drivers to put safety first and will continue to track school zone enforcement efforts and pedestrian-safety programs across Oklahoma.