Last Updated on August 13, 2015 7:48 pm
It’s Back to School Time
Watauga County Schools open for students on Tuesday, August 18, 2015. Boone Police Officers will be out ensuring things go smoothly for students, parents, and teachers on the first day of classes. Officers will be posted near Hardin Park Elementary School and Watauga High School to monitor vehicle and pedestrian traffic to minimize congestion while keeping everyone safe. Strict enforcement of school bus and school zone safety laws will take place. Below are some safety tips for everyone to follow to make this a safe and stress free school year.
SCHOOL BUS SAFETY
School bus safety is not only important in school zones, but all other areas where students are picked up and dropped off. When you see a school bus stopped with flashing red lights, traffic from both directions must stop. It is a misdemeanor violation to pass a stopped school bus. This charge will result in a fine of up to $500 and 5 driver’s license points. If you observe someone passing a stopped school bus, please note the vehicle license plate and immediately report it to the Boone Police Department, or your local law enforcement agency. You may also report violations via High Country Crime Stoppers, www.highcountrycrimestoppers.com.
TRAFFIC FLOW SAFETY
On school days from 7:20 AM until 8:00 AM and 2:15 PM until 3:00 PM, northbound traffic on Jefferson Road (Hwy 194) is not permitted to make a left turn into Hardin Park. Official signs have been erected and officers will be enforcing violations. Drivers wishing to enter Hardin Park School should use New Market Blvd near A Cleaner World and then turn right onto Jefferson Road to enter the school. This will make traffic flow more efficient, eliminate congestion, and increase safety.
