After weeks of unfettered driving, it's time for drivers to take care as a seasonal rite once again comes to pass: School is back in session.

Today is the first day of classes in Watauga County, and with that comes throngs of schoolchildren, either walking to and from school, or riding the school bus.

In either situation, drivers must do their part to ensure that safety is paramount in what will fast become a routine exercise twice a day.

One part is checking for children who may be walking or bicycling while you are leaving a garage or backing out of a driveway. Ensuring that the sidewalks around you are clear is the best way to avoid an accident.

It also is prudent to reduce speeds during the hours that children will be en route to or from school. Children are taught to look both ways before crossing a street, but months of summer fun may make this routine a bit rusty for some.

And especially, being on full alert is necessary. Yellow- and red-flashing lights and extended school bus "stop" arms have been few and far between during the past few months. Drivers must be prepared to slow down and stop as school buses go about their morning and afternoon deliveries. Maintaining a safe distance from children entering and exiting a school bus is only possible if you anticipate the need to do so.

Bus safety doesn't end with drivers -- children have responsibility, too -- but it begins with drivers who care enough to help ensure an accident-free school season.