On behalf of the Geneva Police Department, I hope that you found a way to enjoy the unusual summer we have had. It is hard to believe, but the 2020-21 school year has officially begun. It is likely to be unlike any other. It will require all of us to be patient and flexible as we navigate the many challenges and opportunities that we will face as a community.

While our students are learning using many different methodologies this year, it is important to remember that there is a still a great deal of activity surrounding all of our school facilities. It is a good time for some friendly reminders in regards to school related traffic safety.

As I am sure that you have noticed, school buses have begun to pick up and drop off our children. Please remember that you are required to stop for a school bus if the red flashing lights and stop signs are activated.

If you are driving through an identified school zone, the speed limit is 20 mph on school days when children are present. This speed limit is in place to make every effort to assure for the safety of our children and school crossing guards.

Speaking of our crossing guards, they are extremely dedicated to assuring that all of our children are able to safely cross the roadways. Each school year, we receive reports of motorists disregarding the school crossing guards or speeding through the school crossings. Please slow down through these areas. The extra few minutes that you might save are not worth compromising the safety of our students and our crossing guards.

Last but not least, please remember that it is illegal in Illinois to text or talk on a cell phone while you are driving, unless it is hands free operation. This law is designed to assure that drivers have all of their attention focused on the task of driving.

I sincerely hope that these basic reminders help keep us all safe during our daily travels. The Geneva Police Department will have a regular and visible presence around all of our school facilities each and every day. Our hope is that these efforts will assure for the safety of our students, parents, school staff, our school crossing guards, and motorists.