First Day of School Is August 12: Help Keep Kids Safe

Published on August 07, 2026

School starts Wednesday, August 12, 2026, and the Albany Police Department is reminding drivers to slow down near schools. Extra officers will be out enforcing traffic laws and educating drivers throughout the first weeks of the school year.

Common Violations and Their Consequences

• Parking in passenger loading zones. These zones are for active loading and unloading only. Drivers may not leave a vehicle unattended at any time, even briefly.
• Parking in red zones. Stopping, standing, or parking along a red curb is illegal and blocks visibility for other drivers and pedestrians.
• Disobeying a crossing guard. Drivers must follow crossing guards' directions at all times. They are there to protect children.

Tips for a Safe Drop-Off and Pick-Up

• Use crosswalks and stay visible.
• Avoid distracted driving. Put your phone away.
• Keep traffic moving. Do not stop or block a lane.
• Do not block crosswalks, intersections, or driveways.
• Follow your school's drop-off and pick-up procedures, and allow extra time.

Crossing Guard Schedule

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday:

• 7:50 a.m. – 8:35 a.m.
• 1:20 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
• 2:55 p.m. – 3:35 p.m.

Wednesday:

• 7:50 a.m. – 8:35 a.m.
• 1:20 p.m. – 2:20 p.m.

During the first week of school, crossing guards will follow the Wednesday schedule.

Crossing guard availability cannot always be guaranteed. Drivers and pedestrians should use caution at every intersection, whether or not a guard is present.

Thank you for doing your part to keep Albany's kids safe.