Parent’s Post on Speeding Near Central Elementary Sparks Community Discussion

McCOOK, Neb. — “I am not sure how to write this as I am angry! Anger doesn’t get you anywhere so….. I will write and beg for the people driving by Central Elementary School to slow down and obey the cross-walk paths,” wrote parent Alicia Hegwood in a recent post to a local Facebook group.

Hegwood described witnessing “not once but 3 times in a matter of 2 minutes” when “3 young kids almost get hit.” She said she was “sitting at a stop sign” watching traffic for her daughter when she and another driver “blared their horn… because 2 vehicles just blasted right through.” She added, “I finally just pulled right out in front of all traffic in the middle of the street so they have to slow down or hit me.”

In her post, Hegwood suggested “maybe use our tax payers money to hirer more police presence at each school for traffic control” or “maybe a hefty $500 dollar fine for not stopping at the crosswalk and the fine go towards a stop sign.” She ended with a plea: “I honestly don’t know what the answer is except asking and pleading with grown adults to obey traffic laws and slow down!!!!”

Her post drew multiple responses from community members who said they had also witnessed dangerous driving near local schools. Suggestions included adding crosswalk guards in high-visibility vests, reviving student safety patrol programs, stationing police vehicles near crosswalks during peak times, adjusting drop-off and pick-up procedures, and recruiting volunteers or older students to assist with traffic control.

While ideas varied, the discussion made one thing clear: many in the community share the same concern—ensuring children can get to and from school without risking their safety in the crosswalk.

McCook Central Elementary shared this on Facebook-

“It’s been a great start to school! We have some sleepy kids today 🙂. Please keep safety in mind at morning drop-off. Follow crossing signs. Safest drop-offs are on West 1st St. (southbound), West G (north side of building), or West F (next to school) so kids don’t cross streets. It’s especially important when days get shorter. Thanks for helping keep our kids safe!”