by Hunter Culhane

With the new school year now in full motion, things are heading into high gear for students at Milton District High School — but the new school year may not be the only thing gears are turning for. Perhaps it’s gears from a bike that students ride to school on. Whether it’s a bike, car, bus, or something else, we’re here to help you find some new ways to do it smarter!

A fantastic mix of fast and fun, bicycles are a great way to get to and from school! Just remember to follow basic safety precautions: a helmet for riders under 18 is the law. In case you weren’t aware, there are many bike racks in and around Milton District! There’s a bunch of bike racks just outside the cafeteria, near the courtyard. Pro tip: lock your bike just west of MDHS, in front of John Tonelli Sports Centre, where there are also bike racks. Bikes are also eco-friendly and take up much less space than cars do. If everyone rode to and from school, there would hardly be any traffic around MDHS!

You probably know a lot about traffic if you’re one of those students who drives or gets driven to and from school. Getting in and out of the parking lot can become stressful. Before and after school, traffic can be quite heavy. Carpooling with your friends or getting to school early to avoid the rush before the bell rings is the smart and environmentally friendly thing to do! Pro tip: use the parking lot west of MDHS, at John Tonelli Sports Centre, for additional drop-off/pick-up space. It’s usually not to busy unless there’s an event going on at the arena.
image

But perhaps the car is too small for you. Is a bus big enough? No, not the school bus, the city bus! Did you know there are numerous Milton Transit bus routes that go to and from MDHS every day? Chances are, there is one that goes to your neighbourhood. There are two bus platforms on the east and west sides of Commercial Street, next to the football field, where buses arrive around 8:00 a.m. in the morning and depart around 3:00 p.m after school. They’re air-conditioned in the summer and heated in the winter, with comfortable seats too. Pro tip: have your bus pass, ticket or cash ready in hand when you board the bus so you get to where you need to be faster! You can visit MiltonTransit.ca for more information.

Walking to school is also a great option. While not ideal under every weather condition, it’s a great way to stay active. There are great trails alongside major roads in Milton, making for an enjoyable walking experience. Did you know there are ways to enter/exit Milton District from every direction? The front door is not the only way to get in and out! Pro tip: Know the nearest door from your first and last period classes. You can save a lot of time and avoid being late! There are many paths in and around MDHS that you may explore in the future!

So however you get to and from school, we hope we’ve made your journey smarter and safer! Use our pro tips to be on time and prepared for a new school year at Milton District High School! Maybe you’ll change the way you get to and from MDHS. Have fun biking, carpooling, taking the bus, walking, or anything else!