Dear Hudsonville Public Schools Families,
As the use of e-bikes and e-scooters continues to increase among students, we want to make sure everyone understands our expectations for their safe use on school property. During arrival and dismissal, there are often large numbers of students, families, buses, and vehicles moving through our campuses. E-bikes and e-scooters can create additional safety concerns when operated around pedestrians and vehicles.
Effective at the start of this school year, e-bikes and e-scooters are prohibited on all Hudsonville Public Schools property, both during school hours and after school hours.
Students who use an e-bike or e-scooter to travel to school are expected to:
- Get off their e-bike or e-scooter before entering school property.
- Walk their e-bike or e-scooter while on school property.
- Park and secure their e-bike or e-scooter in the designated area.
- Follow all posted traffic, pedestrian, and school safety expectations.
Use additional caution when entering or leaving school property and around buses, vehicles, and pedestrians.
This expectation applies to all HPS campuses and is intended to reduce the potential for collisions and injuries, particularly during busy arrival and dismissal periods. E-bikes and e-scooters may not be ridden or operated anywhere on Hudsonville Public Schools property, regardless of whether school is in session or an after-school activity or event is taking place.
Understanding Michigan E-Bike Laws
We also encourage families to review Michigan's e-bike regulations with their students. Michigan recognizes three classes of electric bicycles:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist e-bike with motor assistance up to 20 mph.
- Class 2: Throttle-assisted e-bike with motor assistance up to 20 mph.
- Class 3: Pedal-assist e-bike with motor assistance up to 28 mph and equipped with a functioning speedometer. Riders must be at least 14 years old.
Helmet Requirement: Michigan law requires riders and passengers under 18 to wear a helmet when operating or riding a Class 3 e-bike. Helmet use is strongly encouraged for all e-bike riders, regardless of class.
Please take a few minutes to talk with your student about safe riding practices and the expectations for using an e-bike or e-scooter around school.
Our goal is not to discourage students from using alternative forms of transportation, but to ensure they can do so safely while protecting students, staff, families, and visitors on our campuses.
Thank you for partnering with Hudsonville Public Schools and helping us maintain safe school environments for everyone.
-Dr. VanderJagt