The new school year is getting underway across the area this week, with students heading back to the classroom.

Schools starting today include Madison Central, Howard, McCook Central, Chester, West Central and Dell Rapids St. Mary.

Tomorrow, students will return to school in Montrose, Dell Rapids Public and Oldham-Ramona-Rutland.

Several area schools have already started. Flandreau and Colman-Egan began classes Tuesday, August 18th, while Tri-Valley students returned to school last week on August 13th.

And an important reminder for Madison drivers: If you are traveling through the crosswalk on 9th Street, you must STOP when the red lights are flashing and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing.

Also, remember that the school zone speed limit is 15 miles per hour. Give yourself a little extra time, slow down and watch carefully for children.

Drivers throughout the area are reminded to watch for increased traffic around schools, buses making frequent stops, and students walking and biking to and from school.