Back to school: Plan your trip before the first bell
August 11, 2026 7:55 AM
by Colleen E. Stoll
The first week of school is an exciting time for students and families, but it can also bring heavier traffic and new routines. Whether you're returning to campus or heading to a new school, taking a few minutes to plan your trip before the first day can help make the school commute safer and less stressful.
The city of Santa Monica encourages families to explore all the ways to get to school. Walking, biking, taking Big Blue Bus, carpooling, or combining transit with walking are all great options that can reduce traffic around schools while helping students arrive safely and ready to learn.
Visit us at registration
Need help figuring out the best way to get to school? The city's Mobility Division and the GoSaMo Transportation Management Organization (TMO) staff, will be at Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) registration events to answer questions and help families find transportation options that work for them.
Stop by to learn about:
- Safe walking and biking routes
- Big Blue Bus service and student transit options
- Safe Routes to School programs
- Tips for making the school commute easier
You can find us at:
- Santa Monica High School (Samohi) registration: Monday, Aug. 10, and Tuesday, Aug. 11, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
- Lincoln Middle School registration: Thursday, Aug. 13, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Whether you're trying transit for the first time, looking for a safer bike route, or wondering how your student can walk to school, we're happy to help!
Back-to-school travel tips
As everyone settles into the new school year, a little patience goes a long way.
If you're driving:
- Slow down in school zones.
- Watch for students walking and biking, especially near crosswalks.
- Follow posted drop-off procedures and avoid double parking.
If you're walking or biking:
- Stay alert and use marked crosswalks.
- Wear a properly fitted helmet when biking or scootering.
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
If you're riding transit:
- Obtain your GoPass with your school if you haven't already. The GoPass provides free, unlimited rides on many transit agencies, including Big Blue Bus and LA Metro.
- Plan your trip before the first day so you know where your stop is and when your bus arrives.
We look forward to welcoming students back for another successful school year. By planning ahead and considering all your transportation options, we can help make the trip to school safer, easier and more enjoyable for everyone.
Authored By
Colleen E. Stoll
Transportation Demand Program Manager