Drivers warned to watch carefully for school children

This week, early morning drivers will see something different along Callaway County roads than they've seen all summer: Children.
Students will be going back to school on Wednesday morning at Fulton Public Schools and St. Peter Catholic School.
At New Bloomfield and North Callaway, the first day for students is Thursday.
South Callaway students began classes last week.
Children at Missouri School for the Deaf will return on Monday. William Woods University students will start on Monday, as well, and Westminster College students start on Aug. 25.
AAA Missouri has launched its 2016-17 "School's Open - Drive Carefully Campaign," warning motorists to use caution.
"The opening of school is a hectic time for everyone," said Mike Right, AAA vice president. "Children are excited to be going back to school and to their friends. Parents are trying to get to work and get their children to school on time. Often, they're distracted and may not be focused on basic traffic safety practices."
Lt. Clay Chism of the Callaway County Sheriff's Office also warned drivers to be alert for school children coming and going from school.
"The sheriff's office asks that citizens around the county be cognizant around schools, and also on the secondary roadways where school buses make many stops," he said. "Should drivers be operating in a careless manner on secondary, county roadways, they may not have ample time to stop their vehicle should they come upon a stopped school bus. Drivers are also reminded that school officials routinely report school bus stop-arm violations to law enforcement, and such violations will be addressed accordingly."
The AAA campaign is in its 84th year, reminding motorists of the following:
When in school zones, watch for reduced speed limit signs that become effective when classes are in session.
Remember the law about stopping before passing or overtaking a school bus stopped to pick up or discharge children.
Watch for youngsters riding bicycles. They may appear suddenly from a blind spot.
If you are a parent, help your child map out his or her safest way to school. Remember traffic hazards near schools multiply when children are dropped off and picked up in family cars.
Remember school traffic controls such as stop signs, traffic signals, adult crossing guards and safety patrols are now operating. Summer driving habits must change to look for and obey these special controls.
Anticipate the actions of youngsters and be ready for anything by reducing speed in areas where children are present.