Dear Friends,

Another summer has come and gone and students are headed back to class this week. As you well know, back to school time is an important event for our entire community. Last year things were a little different starting off and even this year, although better in some ways, returning to school is still being handled cautiously and responsibly.

Students and teachers will be returning with precautions in mind and perhaps even with possible changes to come along the way. As always, administrators have been preparing, working tirelessly and diligently to make sure proper and necessary measures have been made to accommodate the needs of everyone in still maintaining healthy learning environments.

Safety concerns have always been priority for or students and staff in the county and this year, that is still the case as there still remains a little uncertainty with the past few weeks being as they have been. Businesses have been equipping families, teachers and administrators with the supplies and services they need for a successful and safe school year. Back to school is always a very busy time and in one way or another, effects us all.
So as with every year, I ask that during this time, please be extra cautious when driving and in traffic. Be mindful of all our school zones especially during the morning hours and early afternoons. Keep an extra look out for potential hazards around our schools and in neighborhoods where children play. Slow down and increase your stopping distances.

School buses are back on the road, so be aware of school bus routes in your neighborhood and throughout your daily travel. Leave plenty of time and space for buses. With school traffic, anticipate delays in your travel and leave early enough so you're not in a rush.

Please remember when approaching a school zone or school bus on the road, to be prepared and stop for bus and pedestrian traffic and by all means, DO NOT text and drive. Obey ALL "no cell phone" posted signs.

I want to thank all of you who help make our education system an integral, positive force in our community. This past year was a challenge with the extra adjustments and precautions having to be taken and hopefully things will continue to improve. Our children are counting on us, so let's work together to make "Back to School" a rewarding, fun and safe time for all Navarro County residents.

Thank you, 
Sheriff Elmer Tanner