FORT KNOX, Ky. —Fort Knox officials are getting the word out to the Fort Knox community now before children return from Spring Break about a February policy update.
The update, titled “Fort Knox Policy Memo No. 09 - Installation Child and Youth Supervision Policy,” spells out how old children must be before parents can allow them to be left unsupervised in various situations.
Of note is sub-paragraph 2d: “Bus Stops.”
“Children in pre-kindergarten through 2nd grade may not walk to and from school alone or wait at bus stops independently,” reads the document. “Children in 6th grade through 12th grade may walk others to and from school and bus stops.”
The update now includes children up to pre-kindergarten also not being allowed to walk alone to and from school. “We had to make changes to ensure that our policy aligned with DODEA policy,” said one Fort Knox official.
The policy, signed by Garrison Commander Col. Chris Ricci on Feb. 1, applies to all children either visiting or residing on the installation and explains what is meant by supervision.
“‘Supervision’ is the act of watching, directing, and guiding a child’s activities to ensure their safety and wellbeing,” reads the policy.
It also explains that children in grades 5 and below must not be left unsupervised in privatized housing on post at any time and spells out who can be designated as a supervisor.
“Such supervision may be provided by their parents, other adults, or in some instances, children who are [at] least in 6th grade,” reads the memo. “Parents are strongly encouraged to ensure the person providing supervision has been trained in infant/child CPR, basic first aid, and proper care-giving techniques.”
The memo provides information who a babysitter training offered by Child & Youth Services, 4H and the American Red Cross.
Other issues and responsibilities are listed in the policy, which can be found at https://home.army.mil/knox/application/files/3717/0748/7795/FKP09-_Installation_Child_Home_Alone_Supervision_1Feb24.pdf. Those wanting to have their children or others trained as designated supervisors can call 502-624-6703.
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