Back to school safety reminders from LAPD

Published on August 08, 2025

illustration of stylized children going back to school in a cross walk with a school bus in the background with a red stop sign

With the start of the new school year, the Los Alamos Police Department (LAPD) would like to remind all citizens to stay alert and prioritize safety throughout the community. Los Alamos Public Schools will be back in session on Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, with the exception of Chamisa Elementary School, which will reopen to students on Wednesday, Aug. 13.

As students return to school, drivers are urged to slow down, avoid distractions and be cautious near schools, crosswalks, and bus stops. All school zone warning lights will be in effect during morning drop-offs and afternoon pick-ups. Speed limits in these zones are reduced to only 15 MPH during the activation of these lights.

Motorists are required to stop for school buses displaying extended stop signs and flashing lights on them as they are picking up or dropping off children. Ignoring these warnings is not only illegal but also puts students’ lives at risk.

Parking in designated bus stops is prohibited, as it will slow down the pick-up and drop-off times and, ultimately, impact citizens’ ability to get to work on time. Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks and all school grounds are closed to the public during school hours.

New additions for this school year:

White Rock Elementary Schools have new buildings, entry points, and traffic patterns. Drivers should be patient and plan accordingly for changes in parking and bus routes. The new drop-off area for Pinon Elementary School is now located on Sherwood Boulevard, between Longview Drive and Aztec Avenue.

The LAPD will be monitoring traffic activity in school zones to ensure a safe start to the school year. Individuals are encouraged to report unsafe driving behaviors to the Los Alamos Police Department at 505-662-8222.