Wednesday, August 14th, is the first day of school, AP! Let us help you prepare. Aside from the exuberance of our teachers, who are already gearing up, I am certain our kiddos are equally excited to end their summer and get back to learning. 😁

Keep informed, plan ahead, and remain prepared for this Panther school year, 2024-2025.

Plan ahead! The first few days of school are hectic and full of traffic. Prepare the day before and plan on leaving early and spending some extra time getting your little ones off. We also have many new residents and students in town. Welcome to AP!

Walkers

Educate your children about the basic rules of the road. For example:

• Never cross during a red light, wait for green,
• Wear visible or reflective clothing,
• Use known and direct routes to and from school,
• Walk in groups. It’s safer.

Parents, teach your children to avoid suspicious locations, situations, or people and report suspicious activity to a person of trust (teacher, parent, police officer, or other trusted adult). A good way to know and avoid some of these places is by visiting our Sex Offender Page, the Texas DPS Sex Offender Map, and clicking on the dots in the iOS and Android app, Life360. Through our partnership with Life360, we share police activity with the app directly.

Cyclists

Cyclists must obey the rules of the road. This means cyclists must stop for red lights and stop signs, etc.

Bicycles must be equipped with front and rear reflectors, red taillights, and clear headlights (after dark). Like walkers, cyclists should always wear bright or reflective clothing.

Motorists

HANG UP AND DRIVE! – Using your cell phone for calls or texting is prohibited citywide, not just in a school zone. You will receive a citation, so hang up and drive. We’ll be watching!

Plan for traffic and delays! The first few weeks of school are always busy. Be mindful of children on bikes and on foot, as they may occasionally dart out in front of you.

School Zones **UPDATE** – This past year, the City Council modified school zone times and speeds. The times for reduced speed limits are on school days from 7 am – 8:30 am and again from 3 pm – 4:30 pm. The limited school zone one-ways will run ALL DAY long. View the ordinance release for COMPLETE details!

Life360

Remember, we partner with Life360. It’s free and a good way to keep track of the family while the kiddos are off to school and the adults are off to work. I personally subscribe and use it for my family and have for years. APPD shares crime data directly with them so you, too, can keep tabs on public safety activity around the areas your loved ones frequent. Here’s how to see that data:

* Locations are rounded to block numbers to protect privacy. Sensitive matters or matters of personal security like extra patrols are excluded.

If you have any questions or comments about this service, please contact me directly.

WE ARE AP!