Nonny1 of Gainesville, FL I walked to 5th grade (Williams Elem in Augusta) and was "flashed." I told just one friend, but the police were at my door after school because he told his father. It turns out the man had done the same thing to 2 other girls after he had flashed me (and lived just a block from me). They screamed and he had chased them all the way to school. The school officials didn't bother allerting the kids or the parents to the danger. That was in the 1970's. Things have only gotten worse.

Every situation is different, but parents must simply be diligent and use extreme caution before sending their kids to walk or bike to school.report abuse

Rick of Winslow, ME Retired: http://www.familywatchdog.us/Default.aspreport abuse

Leeds of Leeds, ME It's a wonderful idea if it can be made safe, (isn't it horrible to have to say that?). I rode my bike for miles around the countryside at age nine and it is one of my best childhood memories. We explored every nook and cranny within five miles. I was approached once when I had a flat tire and someone offered me a ride home. Fortunately I was savvy enough to make up a story to avoid trouble but not savvy enough not to accept a ride from a stranger. I think the inquiry about predators on the route is valid. Wouldn't it be great if parents would ride their bikes and monitor the paths? Keep the kids bikes in good condition, wear helmets.report abuse

Retired of Vassalboro, ME Question for the city officials and this newspaper. How many registered sex offenders live/work on the proposed routes?report abuse