Common School Zone Traffic Violations
School Zone Safety
Protecting Our Students Starts with You
The safety of our students, staff, and visitors is a shared responsibility. Texas law provides enhanced protections in and around school campuses to help create a safe environment for everyone. The following information highlights several of the most common traffic laws and safety regulations that apply within school zones.
Please note: State laws and traffic regulations are subject to change. This information is provided as a general educational resource and should not be considered legal advice.
School Zone Hours
School zone flashing beacons and speed limit schedules are established by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). TxDOT determines the location of school zones and the operating times of all flashing signals.
The current scheduled operating times for Alvord ISD school zones are:
| Campus | School Zone Hours |
|---|---|
| Elementary School | 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
| Intermediate School | 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
| Middle School | 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
| High School | 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
These times are subject to change by TxDOT without prior notice. Drivers should always obey posted signs and flashing school zone beacons.
Cell Phone Use on School Property
Texas law prohibits the use of a handheld wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle on school property. This prohibition includes:
School parking lots
Campus roadways
School driveways
Other property owned or controlled by a school district
Drivers may legally:
Use a hands-free device.
Use a cell phone while the vehicle is lawfully parked.
Use a cell phone to report an emergency.
Distracted driving places students, staff, and other motorists at risk. Please remain attentive whenever driving on or near school campuses.
Passing a Stopped School Bus
Texas law requires drivers traveling in both directions to stop for a school bus displaying flashing red lights and an extended stop arm, unless separated by a physical median.
Passing a stopped school bus illegally places children in immediate danger and carries significant penalties.
Current state law provides for:
First offense: Minimum fine of $500, plus applicable court costs.
Subsequent offense: Minimum fine of $1,000, plus applicable court costs.
Additional penalties may apply depending on the circumstances of the violation.
Speeding in a School Zone
Speed limits in school zones are reduced to protect students, parents, school employees, and pedestrians during peak arrival and dismissal times.
Violations occurring within a designated school zone generally result in:
Increased fines and court costs compared to standard speeding violations.
Additional consequences as provided by Texas law.
Depending on the circumstances and court eligibility requirements, some drivers may qualify for a driver's safety course or deferred disposition. Eligibility is determined by the court with jurisdiction over the citation.
Help Keep Our School Zones Safe
The Alvord ISD Police Department encourages every driver to exercise patience, remain alert, and obey all traffic laws while traveling through school zones. Slowing down, eliminating distractions, and following traffic laws help ensure that every student arrives at school and returns home safely.
Together, we can make our campuses and roadways safer for everyone.