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Tuesday marked the first day of school for thousands of students and their families in North Hays County. Students at Dripping Springs Elementary rose at dawn to prepare for the start of the new school year. For Kyleigh Sue Shlicke, 4, a pre-K student, her beaming face captured the excitement of a child eager to learn and make new friends.
Meanwhile, staff directed traffic and helped guide families from the chaotic parking lot into a semblance of order. Many students were excited to begin school, while others were still a bit sleepy or unsure of what to expect. Teachers and staff provided reassurance with welcoming smiles, sig hope for a new chapter of learning and self-discovery.
Buses navigated the winding Hill Country roads to pick up students living in rural areas, safely delivering them to their first day of class in the new school year.
As flashing school zones remind drivers that school is back in session, local law enforcement officers will also be visible to help the community ease into the change in traffic following the summer break.
Hays County Constable Ron Hood, who oversees deputies in North Hays County, confirmed that his deputies will be more visible this week. 'Our goal is to create a safe environment for students, staff, and parents. By maintaining a strong presence in the schools, we can deter potential safety issues and respond quickly to any concerns that arise,' Hood said.
In addition to the deputy assignments, the Constable's Office has requested assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety's motorcycle troopers. These troopers will help manage congestion and traffic safety concerns along the busy U.S. 290 corridor in Dripping Springs, a critical area for ensuring the smooth flow of traffic as families navigate the back-to-school rush.
With students in Dripping Springs and Driftwood now back in class, all drivers are urged to pay extra attention on the roads, especially in school zones.
