Back to school in Fort Worth: Get ready for Aug. 10

Fort Worth ISD students return to school Monday, Aug. 10! As summer comes to an end, families are getting ready to return to classrooms, ride buses and resume their morning routines.

The start of a new school year is a great time to get organized, plan ahead and make sure everyone is ready for a safe and successful first day.

Start the school year on the right foot

Before Aug. 10, families can take a few simple steps to make the transition back to school easier:

Review your child's school schedule and transportation plans.

Check school start and dismissal times, as they may have changed since last year.

Plan your route to school and allow extra time for increased morning traffic.

Make sure children know where their bus stop is located and which school bus they should take.

If your child walks or bikes to school, practice the route together before the first day.

Younger children should walk with an adult whenever possible.

Cross streets only at marked crosswalks or intersections.

Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street.

School zone flashers may not operate at the same times at every school. Always follow posted signs and obey traffic laws.

Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking during low-light conditions.

Stay hydrated when walking or biking to and from school. Carry a water bottle.

Safety is the priority

As students head back to school, everyone has a role to play in helping keep them safe.

Drivers should slow down in school zones, obey posted speed limits, stay alert near crosswalks and school bus stops, and avoid distractions such as cellphones.

Students who walk or bike should use designated crossings, follow traffic signals, stay aware of their surroundings and avoid distractions such as phones and headphones.

The City of Fort Worth's School Crossing Guard Program provides crossing guard services during school drop-off and pick-up hours to help students safely cross the street. Elementary and middle schools within Fort Worth city limits are eligible to request crossing guard services. Learn more about the School Crossing Guard Program, including how schools can request crossing guard services.

Photo: Welcome back, Fort Worth students! We wish all students, families, teachers and staff a safe, successful and exciting school year!