Why is the district addressing e-device safety now?

As e-device (e-bikes and e-scooters) use among students has increased, so have concerns related to safety, traffic interactions, and understanding of applicable laws. Roseville City School District is working proactively with the Roseville Police Department (RPD) and the City of Roseville Safe Routes to School program to ensure students and families have clear, consistent information about safe and lawful riding before issues escalate.

Is this program about discipline or enforcement?

No. This is an education-first initiative.

The goal of RIDE SMART Roseville is to:

• Educate students and families
• Promote safe riding behaviors
• Clarify laws and expectations
• Encourage positive decision-making

Law enforcement remains the responsibility of RPD, not school staff. Schools are not enforcing vehicle laws related to e-bikes or e-scooters.

What is RIDE SMART Roseville?

RIDE SMART Roseville is the district’s safety education campaign focused on helping students ride responsibly and lawfully.

What does RIDE SMART stand for? 

RIDE SMART stands for:

• R – Rules First
• I – Inspect Gear
• D – Designated Paths
• E – Eyes Up
• S – Slow Down Safely
• M – Mind Others
• A – Always Wear a Helmet
• R – Respect the Rules
• T – Teach & Share

This framework is used consistently across student lessons, family communications, and community outreach.

Are e-scooters allowed for students?

California law makes it illegal for anyone under the age of 15½ to operate an electric scooter on public roadways. Families are encouraged to review these laws carefully and discuss them with their children.

The district’s role is to educate; enforcement of vehicle laws is handled by law enforcement.

Will students receive tickets at school?

School staff do not issue citations or enforce vehicle code violations. Any enforcement related to e-bikes or e-scooters is handled by RPD and may begin with education and warnings before citations, as appropriate.

Which grade level(s) of students does this apply to?

The program is developmentally appropriate and tailored by grade span, with a particular focus on both elementary and middle school students, as e-device use is common in our area.

What will students learn through this program?

Students will receive age-appropriate education on:

• Helmet use and visibility
• Rules of the road
• Safe speeds
• Awareness of pedestrians and vehicles
• Differences between bikes,  e-bikes, scooters, and e-scooters
• California laws related to riding

Instruction may occur through assemblies, hands-on safety clinics, and school events.

What role does the Roseville Police Department play?

RPD is a key partner in this initiative. Their role includes:

• Participating in educational assemblies and family webinars
• Providing accurate information about laws and safety expectations
• Supporting community education efforts
• Handling enforcement as required under California law

RPD is working closely with the district to ensure messaging is consistent, transparent, and focused on safety.

What is the RIDE SMART Roseville sticker?

Students who participate in safety education activities may receive a RIDE SMART Roseville sticker as a positive reinforcement tool.

The sticker:

• Recognizes participation in safety education
• Encourages responsible behavior
• Is not a permit or authorization to ride an e-device

What is expected of families?

Families play an important role in student safety by:

• Determining whether their child is permitted to ride an e-bike or e-scooter
• Ensuring helmets and safety equipment are used
• Discussing applicable laws and expectations
• Reinforcing safe, responsible riding behaviors

How does Safe Routes to School fit into this program?

The City of Roseville’s Safe Routes to School program supports:

• Route planning and awareness
• Identification of safer walking and riding routes
• Education on sharing the road safely
• This partnership helps students choose safer ways to travel to and from school.

Where can families find more information?

Additional resources, including safety videos, laws, route maps, and upcoming events, will be available here on the district’s RIDE SMART Roseville webpage.