SCS Looking into Rules for E-Bikes, Skateboards

By David Avitabile

SCHOHARIE - You probably have seen them in the villages and they seem really weird at first. People riding on bikes without peddling them and gliding on skateboards and scooters without any effort.

E-bikes and skateboards and scooters are the new "in" thing and it does not appear that they are going away anytime soon. The craze has become an issue at Schoharie Central School, Superintendent David Blanchard told school members at their October meeting.

The E-bikes and skateboards have become quite popular and the problem started over the summer, Mr. Blanchard said. Riders began cutting up the hill and also around the parking lot and moved very quickly. "It's becoming more and more of an issue."

It is a safety concern and rules are needed, Mr. Blanchard told school board members.

"We need to look into a policy on E-bikes, skateboards, and scooters on school property," Mr. Blanchard added.

"They were so quick. They function differently than regular bikes."

Board member John Florussen said that supervision is needed.

Mr. Blanchard said that he spoke to the students with the E-bikes and told them they have to be mindful of safety. He noted that if the devices go more than 20 miles and hour, it is a law enforcement issue.

The electric devices are also being used in the village, he added. There was an incident in which a bike drove over a student's foot. The incident happened after school hours.

Mr. Blanchard said the district may have to have students walk their E-bikes, skateboards, and scooters on school property. There are also liability issues, officials said.

The Superintendent said a proposed policy will be written and brought back to the board for review.