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Every year about this time, we publish an editorial reminding everyone to slow down in school zones.

The summer months are usually just enough time for us to break our habits and drive normal speeds through those areas. Well, this year it’s been even longer since students returned to school, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Most Troup County students will be back in the classroom this next week, meaning school buses are back on the roads.

Children, especially little ones, are not always very observant when waiting at the bus stop or getting off of a bus. If you’re near a bus when it stops to pick up students or let them off, make sure you stop and are aware of your surroundings. Expect the unexpected.

Make sure to watch out for children who may be walking through their neighborhood to the bus stop or to their school.

Even if you’re running late, make sure to be observant. Children who are also running late might cross the road quickly without looking both ways. Always be ready to stop.

This school year children have a lot to worry about as they get ready to head back to the classroom. They’ve got to remember their homework, their books, other materials, plus their mask. It’s going to be a learning process for everyone.

So, do your part to make the trek to and from school as safe as possible for students and bus drivers. There is never an excuse to drive past a school bus that is stopped picking up or dropping off students.

And there’s never a reason to speed through a school zone.

Do your part Troup County. Slow down and watch closely in school buses and around school zones.