School is back in session! Well, not for everyone but today it is for our ISD staff. Welcome back, APISD heroes!!

On Monday, August 16, 2021, our community kiddos will return to school. Here are a few things to keep in mind so that you do your part in making this return to school a safe and joyous occasion.

FIRST OFF – Plan ahead! The first few days of school are hectic and full of traffic. Prepare the day before and plan on leaving a bit 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 those instances to a person of trust (teacher, 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.

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 & rear reflectors and a red taillight & clear headlights (after dark). It’s always a good idea to wear bright or reflective clothing too, just like walkers.

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!

Again, plan for traffic and delays. It’s always busy the first few weeks of school. Be mindful of children on bikes and on foot, because they may have an occasional tendency to dart out in front of you.

Parents

We continue to work closely with APISD to provide a safe environment for students and staff.  I encourage parents to reach out to us to learn the many ways this partnership works for the safety and wellbeing of your child. The following will highlight some of the more important efforts that go into this effort.

Character Building

Officers are regularly in the schools. In addition to two full-time school resource officers, all my command staff are assigned to a campus. One shouldn’t be alarmed to see officers in the schools. We work to reinforce character building like those promoted and taught by the Early Act First Knight program and we pride ourselves on building strong relationships with our community kiddos and parents.

Additional Resources

Life360 – We’re a partner with Life360 to bring you & your family an added sense of security in AP. Keep an eye on loved ones while providing them a way to alert you in a time of need. As stated, we regularly update Life360 public safety data through SpotCrime.com so you know what’s going on around you and your loved ones. Life360 allows you to be alerted when your child arrives at school, leaves, or arrives home.

NCMEC – The National Center of Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) provides a wealth of resourceful information. Did you know – attempted abductions occur more often when a child is going to or from school or school-related activities? Learn more at NCMEC online and arm your child with knowledge.

Be a Hero not a Bully

• More videos from the FTC
• StopBullying.gov
• Dealing with Cyberbullies
• Keeping Children Safe Online

Go Panthers!!