Hart, Stephens County Students Back to School Today

Hart and Stephens County students are back in class today and authorities are reminding motorists that means buses are back on the roads and students are out waiting for them in the early morning hours.

Stephens County Sheriff Randy Shirley said people need to remember to be vigilant on the roads and expect the unexpected.

Shirley said he will have extra deputies patrolling the highways as school gets started on Monday.

“Traffic will be extremely heavy,” said Shirley. “Be patient.”

The sheriff said people should leave early enough to allow plenty of time to arrive at their destination safely and on time.

“Please monitor speed, especially in school zones and look for those flashing signs,” said Shirley. “We will be working and writing citations to those going over speed limit in school zones. Wear safety belts. Be cognizant of school buses making frequent stops.”

And the Sheriff said it’s important parents review other safety tips with their children who ride the bus.

“Wait for the school bus to signal before crossing the street,” said Shirley. “Always walk at least 10 steps from the front of the bus, so the driver can see you.”

He also encouraged children not to reach under the bus for something that has fallen and to treat the bus drivers with respect and not shout on the bus.

Shirley also said children should not play in the street while waiting for the bus and should have a safe place to wait for the bus away from the street.

Then once a child gets off the bus, Shirley said they should move onto the sidewalk if there is one and out of traffic.
Students in Franklin County go back to class on Wednesday.