Message from the Chief

Back to School Time

The Parsons Police Department would like to remind you that back-to-school time is an important event for our entire community.

Students return to class during this time, and teachers implement new lesson plans for the school year. Administrators are addressing school budgets, bus routes, staffing, and safety concerns. Parents coordinate work and school schedules, carpool, and support their student's activities and studies. Businesses are equipping families, teachers, and administrators with the supplies they need for a successful school year. Back to school is a busy time for us all.

Please be extra cautious in traffic during this busy time. Be mindful of our school traffic zones, especially in the morning and early afternoons. Keep an extra lookout for potential hazards around our schools and neighborhoods where children play. Slow down and increase your stopping distances. Last year, officers conducted 211 school safety zone enforcement assignments and they will again be looking to protect students this year as well.

Of course, we are excited to again have School Resource Office Shyanne Dunn back in the schools providing guidance and assistance to students and staff alike.

As school buses are back on the road, be aware of school bus routes in your neighborhood and throughout your daily travel (make sure to allow plenty of time and leave space for buses). With school traffic, anticipate delays in your trip and leave early so you're not in a rush. As always, when approaching a school zone or school bus on the road, be prepared to stop for bus and pedestrian traffic.

Labette Community College (LCC) is also back in session. Traffic around the college, Forest Park, the Parsons Recreation Center, and Garfield Elementary School which all abut each other can cause significant vehicle and foot traffic. In this multi-block area, it's essential to slow down and drive sensibly.

I want to thank all of you who help make our education system an integral, positive force in our community. Our children are counting on us - let's work together to make back-to-school time a rewarding, fun, and safe time for all Parsons City residents.

ROBERT SPINKS, MA, MS

Chief of Police

Parsons Police Department

See It! Hear It! Report It!

620-421-7060