School begins today in Calvert and tomorrow in St. Mary’s and it is that time of year when any number of things change in the lives of children and for commuters in Southern Maryland.

Drivers are encouraged to take a bit more time to go to work in the morning so they can learn the new bus stop patterns and see where children and families congregate while waiting to get a ride to school in the morning.

Most drivers do not have to avoid the afternoon school bus traffic because most schools let out before the workday ends. However, delivery drivers and commercial traffic are cautioned to keep a sharp eye out for new bus stops and children walking along the side of the road at various times in the afternoon.

“I encourage everyone in the community to do everything that we can to keep our children safe,” said Dr. Michael J. Martirano, Superintendent of St. Mary’s County Public schools. “We must protect our children and we must keep them safe.”

In Calvert County, Sheriff Mike Evans stated that on the first day of school, August 25, citizens will see an increase in the presence of Sheriff Office personnel on roadways, at bus stops and at school locations. 

“Although Sheriff deputies routinely patrol the schools and roadways, the increase in patrols will assist in ensuring that parents, students and the general public arrive safely at their destinations,” said Evans.

In St. Mary’s County, the Sheriff’s Office is planning a “Back to School Initiative,” which is planned to ensure all drivers are aware that schools are open and motorists need to pay careful attention to children pedestrian traffic and schools bus traffic pattern changes. The initiative began on Monday, August 24 and concludes on Thursday, August 27. The effort is countywide in an effort to keep everyone safe.