Blue Haze fifth graders become ambassadors for new TxDOT driver safety campaign

Blue Haze Elementary fifth graders helped launch a new driver safety campaign, Partners in Safety, with TxDOT, Zachry Construction Corporation, and the Fort Worth Police Department.

Twenty students—selected for exhibiting the Blue Haze Core 4—were “deputized” during a grade-level assembly. They led all fifth graders in an oath to remind the adults in their cars to: put down phones, slow down, watch for signs, and watch for the workers.

The newest road safety ambassadors also got a sneak peek at the campaign’s new mascot, Zach the Zone Ranger. They are: Winter-Rose Lucas, Coraline Moretz, Claire Oden, Alexander Hernandez, Annalise Hernandez, Tiara Lipscomb, Keegan Dirck, Adonai Hernandez, Danaiz Rodriguez Ferreiras, Jessica Gutierrez, Elijah Luna, Cooper Ridgley, Alessandra Flores, Selena Kassing, Naomi Munk, Ayleen Ramirez, Aries Gieger, Steven Gomez, Lee’ah Jackson-Waters and Kaylee Segura.

The Texas Department of Transportation is rebuilding Interstates 20 and 30 west of Fort Worth.

"The rapid growth in Western Tarrant and Eastern Parker Counties necessitated the expansion of the I20 and 30 corridor,” said TxDOT District Engineer David Salazar. “That growth continues at an unprecedented rate."

Salazar said the 2871 bridge and Linkcrest Drive U-turn will open in the coming weeks.

“In a few short years, our students will be behind the wheel themselves,” said Superintendent Frank Molinar. “Our hope is that by learning about these safety messages today—and helping share them with others—they’ll begin developing safe driving habits that they can carry with them when they become drivers.”

The event included performances by the Fightin’ Bear Band drum line; Fort Worth Police Department West Commander Jason Spencer, who reminded drivers to stay off their phones; and Zachry Construction Corporation President Travis Mross.