By Lookout Staff

August 14, 2025 -- With Palisades Charter High School back in session Wednesday and Samohi set to kick off the new school year next Thursday, City officials are encouraging commuters around the Downtown area to plan ahead.

Pali High's temporary Santa Monica campus at the site of the former Sears building on Colorado Avenue is just blocks away from the Samohi Campus.

"With the influx of students, city officials advise commuters, residents, workers and business owners to allow extra time if traveling near school areas, be on the lookout for students, and always choose to take the friendly road," the City said in a statement Tuesday.

Pali High, which relocated to Santa Monica in April after the January wildfires damaged their campus, will remain in the City until December 9.

It is one of four schools that relocated to Santa Monica and are starting a new school year in the beach city, officials said.

The City Council paved the way for the moves in January when it unanimously approved an emergency order allowing schools affected by the wildfires to relocate to the city.

“Back to school can be a hectic transition for many families, and especially for our Palisades families who are still in the process of rebuilding,” Mayor Lana Negrete said in a statement.

“The city remains a committed partner in helping restore a sense of normalcy as families settle into their routines for the new school year.”

The City has been revving up to help students get to school safely, including unveiling new pedestrian improvements around six District campuses ("City Set to Help Students Get to School Safely," August 6, 2025).

Students will also continue to get free rides on public transit and help from crossing guards to safely cross key intersections.

In addition, Downtown businesses will continue to offer discounts and specials for faculty and students from Pali and Samo high schools. For more information click here

The Police Department provides school safety tips, "including information for drivers as they navigate the streets around our schools." To check out the safety tips, click here