With the thermometer hovering at the hundred-degree mark, it is difficult to think about school days ahead, and the hustle-bustle of packed lunches, homework, and special events. 
  
Though we might have become lax with menus, bedtimes, and noticing school zones, we must again be extra diligent.  In addition to the many vehicles and school buses needed to transport Garland’s school children, many more of our little ones will be walking to school this year, some for the first time.
 
The City of Garland school crossing guards crossed a record number of over 5500 children safely each day this last school year and expect that number to grow even more in the new school year.
 
Please be reminded of the following laws.  School zone speed limit is 20 miles per hour when the lights are flashing.  In elementary school zones, the times are 6:55am – 8:10am and 2:55pm – 4:00pm.  (These times might vary somewhat due to particular school needs.)  Be observant of all speed limits and do not pass any school bus that is stopped with the lights flashing.
 
Parking restrictions adjacent to schools are provided to facilitate movement of the many vehicles converging to drop off and pick up students.  Obedience to the parking laws and a little patience will stave off traffic delays.
 
This last school year, 80 crossings were manned to ensure a safe journey to and from school for those students walking.  It is unlawful for any vehicle to stop in or cross an occupied crosswalk.
 
The City of Garland Police Department and the Dallas County Constables will be ticketing violators of these laws.  Please use a measure of care anywhere around schools to make this next year accident-free.