After an eventful summer of change, another school year is about to begin for Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS). Orientations for sixth-grade middle school students and ninth-grade high school students were held Monday, Aug. 19. The system’s nearly 16,000 students will arrive early Tuesday morning, Aug. 20 to begin the 2013-2014 school year.

 

Changes abound within CCPS’ administrative ranks. Dr. Jack Smith resigned during the summer and accepted an administrative post with the Maryland State Department of Education. Patuxent High School Principal Nancy Highsmith was named the interim superintendent for the 2013-2014 school year. Additionally, five county schools will have new principals. Over 40 new teachers have been hired for the new school year.

While there are significant changes, some old routines, especially those involving area motorists, will resume.

School buses operated by employees of numerous independent contractors provide transportation for every child needing a ride to school. The Maryland State Highway Administration reported that the greatest danger to children is not when they are riding in a bus but when they are approaching or leaving the bus.

The SHA reminds drivers backing out of driveways to watch out for children walking to bus stops and schools or riding bicycles to school. Motorists should be especially cautious when driving in neighborhoods with school zones.

It is also important for motorists to learn and obey the alternately flashing warning light system that school bus drivers use to alert other vehicle operators. The SHA reminds motorists the yellow flashing lights indicate the bus is preparing to load or unload children. Motorists should slow down and prepare to stop their vehicles.

Red flashing lights and extended stop arms indicate the bus has stopped and children are getting on or off. State officials caution that motorists approaching the bus from either direction must wait until the red lights stop flashing before proceeding.

For information on CCPS’ bus schedule, visit their web site

http://www.calvertnet.k12.md.us/departments/transport/bus/schedule.asp

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