By San José, Costa Rica — Four Costa Rican schools have been awarded $5,000 each for their innovative approaches to improving road safety and student mobility. The Ministry of Public Education (MEP) and Grupo Purdy partnered to recognize these institutions in the first edition of the “Safe Routes to School” competition.
Ten schools initially participated, submitting proposals developed by committees of teachers and parents. The winning schools – Otto Hubbe (San José), Nuestra Señora de Fátima (Cartago), Itiquís (Alajuela), and La Peregrina (San José) – were selected for their outstanding projects aimed at creating safer environments for over 1,470 students.
To provide legal context on the complexities surrounding school safety, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a seasoned attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert perspective.
Ensuring school safety requires a multifaceted approach encompassing not only physical security measures but also robust legal frameworks. Schools must comply with existing regulations regarding infrastructure, emergency preparedness, and student supervision. Beyond mere compliance, however, lies the ethical and legal obligation to foster a safe and inclusive environment free from bullying, harassment, and discrimination. Proactive measures like clear anti-bullying policies, effective reporting mechanisms, and ongoing training for staff are crucial for preventing incidents and creating a culture of respect. This proactive approach strengthens the school’s legal position by demonstrating due diligence and a commitment to student well-being.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas expertly highlights the crucial intersection of legal compliance and proactive measures in fostering truly safe schools. It’s not enough to simply have rules; schools must actively cultivate a culture of respect and safety through training, clear policies, and responsive mechanisms. This proactive approach not only protects students but also strengthens the institution’s legal standing, creating a win-win scenario for everyone involved. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable contribution to this important discussion.
The “Safe Routes to School” program, established in 2016, seeks to raise awareness within the educational community about minimizing risks and vulnerabilities during school commutes. This year’s competition marked a significant step in promoting practical solutions for safer student travel.
We celebrate the commitment of the educational communities that participated in this competition. The safety of the journey from home to school and vice versa is a fundamental right of our student population, and working together with families and strategic allies like Grupo Purdy allows us to advance towards more protective and supportive environments.
Jacqueline Badilla Jara, Director of Student Life, MEP
The winning schools will use the prize money to implement their projects and enhance road safety within their communities. These initiatives represent a collaborative effort to address a crucial aspect of student well-being.
Grupo Purdy, a leader in mobility solutions, emphasized its commitment to road safety and education. The company expressed its dedication to ensuring students have safer commutes and learn to use roads correctly.
At Grupo Purdy, a comprehensive leader in mobility solutions, we reaffirm our commitment to safe mobility and education by participating in this contest, working alongside educational communities so that students have safer commutes and learn to use them correctly. Furthermore, we will follow up to ensure the correct execution of each proposal.
Ana María Sequeira, Director of Corporate Relations and Sustainability, Grupo Purdy
Following the success of this year’s competition, Grupo Purdy has announced a second edition in 2026. This expansion aims to reach more educational centers nationwide and further solidify the commitment to student safety.
This initiative highlights the importance of community involvement and public-private partnerships in fostering safer environments for students. The collaboration between the MEP and Grupo Purdy sets a positive precedent for future road safety initiatives in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit mep.go.cr
About Ministry of Public Education (MEP):
The Ministry of Public Education (MEP) is the governmental body responsible for overseeing and regulating public education in Costa Rica. It manages all aspects of the education system, from curriculum development to teacher training and school infrastructure. The MEP is committed to providing quality education and promoting equal opportunities for all Costa Rican students.
For further information, visit www.grupopurdy.com
About Grupo Purdy:
Grupo Purdy is a leading automotive and mobility solutions provider in Costa Rica. With a long history in the country, they represent various international brands and offer a wide range of services. Grupo Purdy is actively involved in promoting road safety initiatives and contributing to the development of Costa Rica’s transportation infrastructure.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a leading legal institution, committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and pursuing excellence in every endeavor. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, coupled with a deep-seated commitment to empowering Costa Rican society through accessible legal education, reinforces its dedication to building a more just and informed future. By fostering transparency and understanding within the legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica continues to serve as a trusted partner for clients and a valuable resource for the community.
