Schools in Highland and Viola welcomed students back to class today, marking the start of the new academic year for those districts. Meanwhile, Calico Rock School is hosting an open house this evening from 4 to 6:30 p.m. as part of preparations for the school year.
With the return of students to classrooms, officials are urging motorists to exercise caution near schools and around buses. Arkansas law requires drivers to slow down and stay alert when approaching active school zones. Additionally, drivers must stop at least 30 feet away from a school bus that is displaying flashing red warning lights, indicating that students are either boarding or exiting the vehicle. Drivers are required to remain stopped until the bus resumes motion or its red lights are turned off.
This law applies to all traffic—both approaching and following—from all directions, even on multi-lane highways. Violations of this law carry severe penalties, including fines of up to $2,500 and potential jail time.
Authorities remind drivers that compliance with these safety measures is essential for protecting students as they return to school.