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Boise police touting safe driving as school year starts back up

Class is back in session at schools across the Treasure Valley, prompting a reminder to drivers and pedestrians about being mindful of their surroundings.

BOISE — Class is back in session at schools across the Treasure Valley, prompting a reminder to drivers and pedestrians about being mindful of their surroundings.

The Boise Police Department teamed up with AAA and the Idaho Transportation Department at Taft Elementary Tuesday morning to promote safe driving in school zones.

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Officers are urging motorists to put their phones down and pay attention to traffic signals, crossing guards and flashing lights in school zones.

Boise Police Sgt. Sara Hill said exercising patience and caution around school buses is another big part of the message.

"One of the things that may not be on people's radar with the school being back in session is school buses with their red stop signs coming out - make sure you pay attention to that and stop for students getting off and on the school buses," she said. "We don't want people going around those school buses because they're in a hurry. Oftentimes, small children will be crossing the street and those are busy intersections as well."

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Students can do their part to avoid accidents as well, police said. Kids walking to school are encouraged to go with a buddy, plan out their route, and always use the crosswalk.

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