LINCOLNTON – More than 12,000 students will head back to school today in Lincoln County for a half-day of instruction prior to the first full day of school set for Tuesday.
As Lincolnton High School principal Tony Worley watched students in the commons area before Homeroom, he noted the excitement among students, teachers and staff.
“Most students are ready to come back and see their friends,” said Worley. “They are also ready to get back into a routine. With athletics and band underway, we all got an early start to the year.”
Photo: Students gather outside Lincolnton High School for the first day of school. Photo by Jon Mayhew.
Worley estimated that first day enrollment was around 950 students. He expected the enrollment to grow before Labor Day.
For Worley – as the other 27 principals across the Lincoln County Schools system – the biggest challenge was simple.
“It’s making sure everyone is in the right place and location for the first day of school,” said Worley.
Photo: Lincolnton High School’s four of five busses -- that made two trips each the first day of school – get a break. Photo by Jon Mayhew.
While administrators have the task of making sure the first day of school is problem-free, the challenge for law enforcement is greater.
Authorities were directing traffic around school zones this morning and said the biggest challenge for motorists need is to pay attention to the busses that will now be a part of the morning and afternoon commute.
According to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, there will be a change in traffic patterns on Amity Church Road with the opening of the new North Lincoln Middle School. The new school creates Pumpkin Center Intermediate School from the old Pumpkin Center Middle School.
On the busses, yellow flashing lights means the bus is slowing down for a pickup. Red flashing lights and an extended stop arm indicate the school bus is stopped to pick up children. State law requires motorists to stop. Motorists should keep an eye out for the children walking along the street or roadway, especially where there are no sidewalks.
In North Carolina, passing a stopped school bus carries a $200 fine, five points on the driver’s license of the offender and the possibility of 90 days in jail. According to SafeBus North Carolina, a conviction means a 90 percent increase in insurance rates.
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