ORLANDO, Fla. \u2014 Orange and Sumter County students head back to school Tuesday, as families across the two districts settle into new routines, navigate heavier morning traffic, and prepare for the excitement and first-day jitters that come with the start of a new school year.<\/p>\n
5:00 AM UPDATE:<\/p>\n
OCPS District Police K9 Officers Coco and Kelli give a quick reminder for crosswalk safety during the school year.<\/p>\n
ORIGINAL STORY:<\/p>\n
As students head back to the classroom, local law enforcement is reminding drivers to slow down, stay alert and give themselves extra time during the morning commute.<\/p>\n
Know the Rules Around School Buses<\/p>\n
Before you hit the road, it\u2019s a good time to brush up on Florida\u2019s school bus safety rules.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Two-lane road: Drivers in both directions must stop when a school bus is stopped with its stop signal displayed.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Multi-lane road without a physical barrier: Drivers in both directions must stop.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Roadway with a physical barrier or raised median: Drivers traveling in the opposite direction of the bus generally do not have to stop, but they should proceed with caution and watch carefully for students.<\/p>\n
Drivers should always remain alert in school zones and be prepared for sudden stops, pedestrians and children crossing the road.<\/p>\n
Deputies Urge Drivers to Be Patient<\/p>\n
Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma says the first few weeks of school can create especially busy conditions around campuses.<\/p>\n
Parents should expect longer drop-off lines and heavier traffic and resist the temptation to cut corners to save time.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut we\u2019re asking parents to be patient as they\u2019re dropping their students off… follow the rules.\u201d<\/p>\n
Deputies and crossing guards will be positioned throughout the area to help manage traffic and keep students safe.<\/p>\n
Lemma also highlighted the extensive preparation crossing guards have completed ahead of the school year. <\/p>\n
The program has received statewide recognition, with guards undergoing intensive training not only on safely crossing students, but also on safety awareness and identifying potential concerns.<\/p>\n
\u201cPretty intensive training as well, not only on safely crossing kids, but looking at safety tips and awareness…\u201d<\/p>\n
The sheriff says crossing guards can serve as extra eyes and ears for law enforcement, particularly in areas where deputies may not always be present.<\/p>\n
Bicycle Safety Reminder<\/p>\n
Students who ride bicycles to school should always wear a properly fitted helmet and obey traffic laws.<\/p>\n
Parents can also review the route to school with their children before the first day and remind them to stay alert around driveways, intersections and school entrances.<\/p>\n
Anyone who notices something suspicious near a school zone is encouraged to report it through the Central Florida Crime Line or Speak Out Hotline.<\/p>\n
Tips for a Smooth Start to the School Year<\/p>\n
The transition back to school can be easier when families prepare ahead of time. <\/p>\n
Here are some simple ways to get children ready:<\/p>\n
\u2022 Start the routine early. Shift bedtimes, wake-up times and meal schedules before school begins to make the transition less stressful.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Practice the morning routine. Have children do a practice \u201cmorning run,\u201d including getting dressed, eating breakfast and leaving the house on time.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Use calendars and checklists. Posting schedules where children can see them can reduce uncertainty and help them feel more in control of their day.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Normalize first-day nerves. Let children know it is normal to feel nervous about new teachers, classmates and routines. Those feelings often fade as they become comfortable with the new school year.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Talk through the next day. Spend a few minutes each evening discussing what is coming the following day. Limiting screens before bedtime can also help children wind down and get the sleep they need.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Make time for breaks. Recess and other breaks give students an opportunity to move, recharge and reset during the school day.<\/p>\n
Give Yourself Extra Time<\/p>\n
For parents and students heading out this morning, the best advice is simple: slow down and plan ahead.<\/p>\n
Expect more traffic around schools, watch for buses and crossing guards, obey posted signs and give yourself extra time to get where you need to go.<\/p>\n
A few extra minutes could make all the difference in helping Central Florida students get to school safely.<\/p>\n
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