Getting students back into a routine is a top priority for teachers as students head back to school after a summer of freedom.
Tuesday is the first day back for Lambton-Kent District School Board and St. Clair Catholic District School Board students.
Maryanne McCrae, principal of St. Ursula Catholic School in Chatham, said routine is key after the summer break.
"They work much better then they have a routine," McCrae said. "The kids know when they arrive in the morning what is going to happen. It makes it better so the children get settled fairly quickly into the program."
While the students were still taking advantage of the last couple of weeks of summer, faculty was back to work preparing to set that routine up.
Julie Faubert, principal of Monsignor Uyen Catholic School, said teachers and staff have been working the last few weeks to get the school year ready for the students.
"They've been making sure the schedules are ready and class lists are ready," Faubert said. "Making sure the students come in and know they have food here and teachers that love and care for them. Yeah, we're a good place for them and ready to go."
McCrae praised the custodial staff for making her school look amazing.
"It is so refreshing because the buildings look so tired and they look like they've had a long year by the end of June," McCrae said. "Our staff are in there in the summer and make it such a welcoming place for the students and staff to come back to. Our staff have been all-in the last couple of weeks and excited to be back. A little anxious like the students sometimes, but it's always exciting this time of year."
Both principles agreed that proper safety around the roads for motorists and students alike is of utmost importance at the start of the school year. Faubert said her school partners with the bus company to teach kids exactly when and where to wait for the bus, how to board it, and what to do when they get off. Both said parents should review the guidelines whether their student takes the bus or not. They added it is just as important for those picking students up to know where kids will be waiting for the buses as the students themselves. On that note, the Chatham-Kent Police Service issued a statement Tuesday morning to warn motorist of the increased pedestrian presence, especially young children, around the municipality.
Officers asked the public to reduce speeds in the area of crosswalks and school zones, and remember "slower is safer."
"With school buses back on the road, all drivers must stop when approaching a stopped school bus with its upper red lights and stop arm flashing, regardless of the speed limit or number of lanes," the statement said. "Motorists failing to comply may be issued a $490 fine and six demerit points."
Police added back to school safety is a community effort and they want to make the new school year in CK a safe one.