Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza is play calling for the Clark County School District, directing Southern Nevada residents to obey traffic laws within school zones as a new academic year begins.
CCSD Superintendent Jhone Ebert said in an ad spot that it takes a team to keep students safe in school zones, so the district enlisted the help of the No. 1 NFL draft pick Mendoza to help get the point across, with Monday marking the first day of school for most Southern Nevada students.
Mendoza broke down the dos and don’ts of driving in school zones in the ad spot posted to CCSD’s YouTube channel. The school district saw 427 student pedestrians become involved in a crash in the area of local schools during the prior school year, representing a 356 percent increase over the prior year.
“Schools zones are a no-blitz zone,” Mendoza said in the video. “The lives around you depend on the choices you make behind the wheel.”
Mendoza used football terms to remind drivers and students alike of safety protocols in school zones.
— To buckle up for every car ride, as they are the best “defensive line” while in a car.
— Slow down in school zones, so everyone makes it safely to their “end zone.”
— U-turns and passing vehicles in school zones are prohibited. Mendoza said not to “fumble” that decision.
— To avoid getting a “penalty flag” drivers should avoid the 10-foot perimeter around a school bus when they loading or unloading children.
— No wheels are allowed on the bus. Students can’t bring bikes aboard and all scooters must be folded and stored in a backpack.
“Raider Nation knows a real win is everyone getting home safely,” Mendoza said.
Contact Mick Akers at makers@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2920. Follow @mickakers on X.
