In March, most Texas students witnessed their spring breaks transform into extended summer vacations. On Monday, though, some Harlingen students will resume face-to-face instruction at their designated schools. 

While “getting back to normal” can be exciting, the reopening of schools means more drivers and traffic before and after school hours. Therefore, it is vital to recognize and discuss the potential dangers of distracted drivers and pedestrians in school zones.

Safety Tips for Students

• Check both ways before crossing a street. If possible, cross the street with a school crossing guard or an adult.

• Do not assume that a driver is going to stop when you enter a crosswalk. Wait for the driver to stop the vehicle before crossing a street.

• Take off your headphones or earbuds while walking on sidewalks or alongside roadways.

• Never run into streets. Be cautious while walking through parking lots.

Safety Tips for Drivers 

• Drive slowly through school zones. Most—if not all—elementary and secondary schools have reduced-speed zones in the mornings and afternoons.

• Double-check for students when entering or exiting a school driveway or parking lot.

• Put your cell phone away. Texting while driving is illegal in Texas. Additionally, drivers cannot use cell phones on school property when a reduced-speed limit is in effect unless the vehicle is stopped or the driver uses a hands-free device. School property includes including parking lots and areas designated for drop-offs and pick-ups.

• Revisit the rules regarding passing a stopped school bus. Remember that a driver on the other side of a roadway need not stop for a stopped bus if a median or a physical barrier divides the roadway. However, drivers must stop for buses loading or unloading students on the other side of a center-turning lane.

I wish the best of luck to all the students returning to their campuses on Monday. Hopefully, this small step is the beginning of the safe reentry for all Harlingen students.

-RDJ