School zones to activate Aug. 16 Published Aug. 5, 2011 By Danny Monahan 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs Kirtland Air Force Base -- School zones on Kirtland Air Force Base will be activated August 16 from 8 to 9 a.m. and 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. for the start of the new school year. The speed limit in a school zone is 15 mph. "During the first few weeks of school, there will be increased security forces personnel around school zones," said Tech Sgt. Gloria Banks, 377th Security Forces Squadron Law Enforcement Operations NCO in charge. "There may not always be a crossing guard available for the school zones, so please adhere to the posted speed limits and keep an eye out for pedestrians crossing the streets." The base's two school zones are the areas surrounding Sandia Elementary School on Wyoming Boulevard and Wherry Elementary school on Gibson Boulevard. "Although the first day of school isn't until Aug. 16, there will be increased pedestrian traffic around the school zones starting Aug. 8 because of school registration," said Banks. Banks said parents need to educate their children about traffic hazards. "Parents need to remind their children to use sidewalks and crosswalks, when available," said Banks. "Ensure children know to be mindful of oncoming traffic, even when they are crossing the street in a crosswalk. Depending on the time of day, drivers may not always be able to see people in the crosswalks from a distance." Banks said speeding on base is always a concern. "We especially want to make sure we monitor our speeds and obey the speed limit," said Banks. "We need to be aware of children walking to and from school."