Photo courtesy of Thomas County Sheriff's OfficeThomas County Sheriff's Office Cpl. Al Banos directs traffic at the Garrison-Pilcher Elementary School open house Thursday morning. The 2017-18 school year begins Aug. 4 at Thomasville and Thomas County schools.  

THOMASVILLE — With school beginning Friday, local law enforcement officers urge motorists to slow down in school zones.

School zones in the city and areas around Thomas County schools will get hectic with children, parents and vehicles.

“Children will be walking to school, as well as being dropped off around schools,” said Maj. Eric Hampton, Thomasville Police Department public information officer, said. “Officers will be patrolling in all school zones to ensure motorists are in compliance with the school zone speeds.”

Parents will attempt to get their children to school on time, and police want the process to be safe.

“It might be a good idea to leave home a little bit early so the temptation to speed will not be there,” Hampton said. “Motorists also need to be on the lookout for school buses picking up and dropping off students around the city.”

Capt. Steven Jones, Thomas County Sheriff’s Office public information officer, said motorists are reminded that Clark Road is one way from U.S. 19 to Hall Road during morning and afternoon school zone times.

“Through traffic should use the left lane on the bypass to allow for morning traffic,” Jones said.

It is imperative that children are not allowed to cross the roads without an adult, the officer said.

It is unlawful for a vehicle to pass a school bus when when the bus stop sign is activated. Violators will be cited. 

“Let’s make this another safe school year for all school children and parents,” Jones said.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820