Gilbert Police Increase School-Area Visibility as Classes Resume
Gilbert Public Schools began its 2026-27 school year Tuesday, July 28, and the Gilbert Police Department says officers are increasing their presence around school campuses during the return to morning and afternoon traffic.
Gilbert police announced the school-year effort July 12. The department said it includes enhanced traffic enforcement, expanded safety education and community engagement. The announcement describes a proactive safety initiative; it does not say that crime or crashes have increased.
What drivers should expect near schools
Gilbert police are reminding drivers to watch for children walking and biking, follow posted speed limits in and around school zones, and stay alert during busy drop-off and pickup periods. The department also advises families to learn their school’s designated drop-off and pickup areas and not block roadways or neighborhood streets.
Police also reminded drivers to avoid distractions such as phones or headphones and not enter a crosswalk until the roadway is clear. Drivers must come to a complete stop when a school bus has its stop arm extended, according to the department’s guidance.
The announcement refers to increased officer visibility around campuses, targeted traffic enforcement, education and outreach. It does not state that every Gilbert campus will have a permanently assigned officer.
Safety resources for students and families
Gilbert police encouraged students experiencing safety concerns on or off campus to report them immediately to a trusted adult, teacher or school resource officer. Gilbert Public Schools also provides an online tip line for concerns involving students or campuses.
For police calls, Gilbert lists 480-503-6500 for non-emergencies. Residents should call or text 911 in an emergency. The department also accepts information through its anonymous tip line.
The police guidance includes bicycles, e-bikes and e-scooters. Gilbert police said the town’s newly adopted 2026 ordinances require helmets for e-bike and e-scooter riders under 18 and set a 15-mph speed limit on sidewalks, in parks and on multi-use paths.
The department also said no person under 12 may operate a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike or an electric scooter, and no person under 16 may operate a Class 3 e-bike. Riders must yield to pedestrians, give an audible warning before passing, use lights at night and follow posted restrictions where certain devices are prohibited.
Police distinguish those devices from electric motor-driven cycles, which can reach speeds of more than 30 mph. The department said those vehicles require the rider to be at least 16 and to have a driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement, an ADOT-issued plate and registration, and insurance.
Family Safety Night is August 6
Families can attend Gilbert PD’s Back-to-School Family Safety Night from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, August 6, at the Gilbert Police Department, 75 E. Civic Center Drive.
The free event is being held in partnership with the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. Gilbert police said the program will include an internet-safety and teen-violence-prevention presentation, a parent question-and-answer session with safety professionals, and a community resource fair featuring Know Your Ride, Mind24/7 and additional partners.
Free school supplies will be available to students while supplies last. Families are encouraged to register in advance.
For drivers, the immediate reminder is to slow down near campuses, follow posted rules, watch for pedestrians and bicyclists, and stop for school buses with extended stop arms. Families should check official district and police guidance and use school or police reporting channels when a safety concern arises.
Sources
Discover more from Interactive News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
