Official MUTCD School Crossing Signs and Assemblies

Safeguard students at critical intersection points with Federal School Crossing Signs. We stock the official S1-1 School Zone pentagon combined with the W16-7P Diagonal Arrow to create compliant School Crossing Assemblies. Manufactured with mandated Fluorescent Yellow-Green (FYG) Diamond Grade sheeting, our School Crossing Signs provide superior visibility for drivers approaching student crosswalks during dawn and dusk.
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The School Crossing Assembly (S1-1 + W16-7P)

To legally designate the actual location of a student crosswalk, the MUTCD requires a specific dual-sign assembly:

  • Top Sign (S1-1): The School Zone Pentagon. It identifies the specific type of hazard (Children).
  • Bottom Plaque (W16-7P): The Downward Diagonal Arrow. This plaque is critical—it points directly at the crosswalk markings on the pavement.
  • Placement Rule: Unlike the Advance Warning sign (which is placed 150+ feet upstream), this assembly must be installed at the crosswalk (or as close as practical) to show drivers exactly where to stop.

Federal Guidelines for School Crossing Signage

A designated School Crossing is a high-liability zone that requires specific regulatory markings to alert drivers to the presence of children. Unlike general pedestrian crosswalks, School Crossing Signs (S-Series) utilize unique shapes and colors to trigger an immediate caution response. Under MUTCD Part 7, installing the correct School Crossing Signs is mandatory to enforce reduced speed limits and right-of-way laws for students.

The School Crossing Assembly (S1-1 + Arrow)

While many people look for a single "School Crossing" sign, the federal standard is actually an Assembly of two distinct signs:

  • The S1-1 Header: The standard Pentagon-shaped School Zone Sign featuring two walking figures. This identifies the hazard type (School Children).
  • The Diagonal Arrow (W16-7P): A rectangular plaque mounted directly below the pentagon, with an arrow pointing down at the crosswalk lines.
  • The Assembly Rule: When combined, these two components form the legal School Crossing Sign assembly. Without the arrow, the sign is just a general warning; with the arrow, it marks the specific crossing point.

Fluorescent Yellow-Green (FYG) Mandate

The most visible feature of modern School Crossing Signs is their color.

  • The Standard: The FHWA requires Fluorescent Yellow-Green (FYG) for all school-related warning signs. Standard yellow is no longer compliant for new school installations.
  • Diamond Grade Reflectivity: We use Type XI Diamond Grade sheeting. This micro-prismatic material reflects nearly 60% of available light, ensuring School Crossing Signs "glow" brightly during early morning drop-offs when visibility is poor.

Placement & Spacing

School Crossing Signs must be installed at the crosswalk itself, not in advance.

  • At the Crosswalk: The S1-1 + Arrow assembly is placed at the crosswalk location to show drivers exactly where students will step out.
  • Advance Warning: A separate S1-1 (without arrow) or "School Ahead" sign should be placed 150 to 700 feet upstream to warn drivers they are entering the zone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions regarding MUTCD compliance, installation standards, and material specifications for regulatory signage.
What is the difference between S1-1 and S2-1 School Crossing Signs?

Historically, the S2-1 sign featured the walking figures plus horizontal lines representing a crosswalk. However, the modern MUTCD standard has largely moved to the School Crossing Assembly—using the standard S1-1 (Pentagon) paired with a Diagonal Arrow Plaque. This modular system allows cities to use the same S1-1 sign for both advance warning (no arrow) and crossing marking (with arrow).
Do School Crossing Signs require High Intensity or Diamond Grade?

We strongly recommend Diamond Grade (Type XI) for all School Crossing Signs. Because these signs protect vulnerable children—often during low-light winter mornings—the superior angularity and brightness of Diamond Grade FYG sheeting provide the maximum possible safety margin. High Intensity is the bare minimum, but Diamond Grade is the safety standard.
Can I use a "Yield to Pedestrians" sign in a School Crossing?

Yes. The R1-6 "In-Street" Pedestrian Crossing Sign (the vertical panel placed on the center line) is highly effective in School Crossings. It physically narrows the lane, forcing drivers to slow down. However, it must be used in addition to the post-mounted School Crossing Signs, not as a replacement.

Need specific code assistance?

If your project requires a specific State DOT certification or a specialized variation not listed here, please contact our Compliance Support Team for a custom specification sheet.