After Woodlands death and other incidents, Palm Beach leaders press for safer walk‑to‑school routes, updated drills and trafficking outreach

Board members and legislators used the joint meeting to press the district on multiple safety items: sidewalk and bike‑lane standards near schools, how fire alarms and drills are performed, cellphone rules and measures to identify and support potential human‑trafficking victims.

Following a recent student death near Woodlands Middle School, board members urged state and county partners to consider roadway design and bike‑lane standards. Vice Chair Marcia Andrews and Board Member Virginia Savieto described a district initiative to raise awareness and proposed a campaign (referred to in discussion as "Starts at Home") to teach students and families safe walking and bicycling practices. The board and superintendent also said the countywide transportation master plan should reflect school access and safety priorities.

Fire alarms and drills were debated after members raised scenarios where immediate evacuation could expose students to external threats. Burke said the district has advised principals to “first look around” and assess safety before executing a fire‑alarm evacuation in situations that may indicate a threat, and to call the school police and general counsel’s office to evaluate warrants when law enforcement appears on campus.

Human trafficking: The district plans to place restroom signage and other developmentally appropriate materials that allow students discreet ways to get help. Burke noted state law now requires training for staff and that the Department of Education will provide a training course in December.

Cell phone policy and other measures: Board members said statewide cellphone statutes and district rules that ban phones in elementary and middle schools have been implemented smoothly and are supported by school leaders as a classroom‑management and safety tool.

What’s next: The district said it will coordinate with county transportation planners and FDOT about sidewalk and bike‑lane standards, expand outreach programming and incorporate new trafficking training once the Department of Education module is released.