Back to school for kids, parents

It’s back to school for students and teachers in the Coachella Valley Unified District.

This year local law enforcement worked to make the first day of school can be an important lesson for not only students but also their parents.

“It’s the first day of school, we are all excited,” said Saul Martinez Elementary Principal Delia Alvarez.

California Highway Patrol officers were a friendly face on a traditionally hectic morning.

“Traffic is a little bit heavier than it will be during the normal school year, because many of the parents want to walk with their kids into school for the first day, so there are a lot more cars that are parked out on the street today,” said CHP Officer Mike Radford.

When driving Radford wants people to remember the speed limit in school zones.

“Make sure you follow that 25 mph school zone speeds, always be alert, avoid distractions. We don’t want any dangerous scenario to be happening out here, so be extra attentive,” said Radford.

Allowing extra time in the morning, especially the next few days, can also help.

“The hardest part is reminding parents that we do have to get back into the routine of school, making sure the children wake up early, have a good breakfast and to be at school on time,” said Alvarez.

CHP and sheriff’s deputies will be around Valley schools into next week.

Students in Desert Sands Unified School District will head back to school next week.