Drivers encouraged to use caution as schools resume

Lauderdale County Lt. Erik Shirley directs traffic Thursday morning at the intersection of Highway 19 and Long Creek Road to help clear congestion as Southeast students marked their first day of a new school year

After a summer of speeding by empty campuses, drivers are urged to use extra caution while traveling near local schools as Lauderdale County students returned to classrooms Thursday for the start of another school year.

Adjusting back to regular school traffic typically takes a few weeks, and congestion caused by pick-up and drop-off lines is expected near school campuses throughout the county. Law enforcement officials said residents are encouraged to leave early and allow extra time for traffic.

To help drivers adjust safely, Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Deputies will be monitoring traffic for the first few days of school and may be directing vehicles to help relieve any backlogs. Drivers are urged to watch for law enforcement and follow deputies’ commands.

Meridian Public School District students will join Lauderdale County students in returning to school on Friday, August 7, while Lamar School students’ first day will be Thursday, August 13. Russell Christian Academy has already welcomed students back, with the first day being Tuesday, August 4

Vehicles back up along Long Creek Road as pick-up and drop-off traffic causes minor congestion during the first day of school for Southeast Lauderdale students.