Extra patrols help usher in first day of school

Hundreds of eager students and some "on edge" parents are hitting the streets today walking kids to the first day of school. Kids back, walking to and from school can be a nerve racking time for parents. So, in a huge enforcement effort Fargo police are also hitting the streets making sure each student gets to and from school safely.

It's a day of firsts for Jennifer Lindee and her two boys. On the first day of kindergarten, her children are growing up, but that’s not what has her worried. It’s the traffic.

Jennifer Lindee – Concerned Parent: "Oh my gosh yes. This is actually my first time living so close like in town with all the traffic. Cause we come from the country and its like ‘oh my gosh.’"

Lindee is like hundreds of parents today with kids walking to and from school. Weary of drivers going too fast or not paying attention. So enforcement is stepping up.

Sergeant Kevin Pallas – Fargo Police: "The speeding the driving behavior can occur unintentionally. So we understand that this is a big day for everyone."

In the 20 school zones Fargo PD patrols, police say drivers were overall very aware of reduced speed signs. But still for parents its wide eyes watching their little loves ones.

Andi Czarnowski – Concerned Parent: "She's easy to miss, you know?

Sergent Kevin Pallas: "Just having patience with everyone as well is very important."

It’s an effort some parents say must not be forgotten by both officers and drivers long after the first day of school is over.

Andi Czarnowski: "There are kids around in the area of the school you have to just always be thoughtful and always be present while driving."

So together, its keeping the kids back on the streets heading to the classrooms safe..

Its a $40 minimum fine if your caught speeding in a school zone.

Tags: k-12 education, law enforcement, dylan wohlenhaus, news, fargo, reporters, updates