Kanawha County authorities patrolling school zones - WOWK 13 Charleston, Huntington WV News, Weather, Sports

Thousands of kids kicked off a brand new school year Friday.

That means hundreds of school buses will be on the roads, and safety is a top priority.

Kanawha County authorities are taking a zero tolerance approach for drivers who break school zone laws.

"Remember that there's a traffic pattern change since the summertime. Now, they're going to have to be watching for kids at school bus stops, watching for the buses themselves as they stop as kids get on and off, and especially being careful in the school zones," said deputy Brian Humphreys.

Humphreys made his first safety stop at Malden Elementary School.

Principal Julie Sayre said the kids are glad to be back in the classroom.

"It is an exciting day. It's so much fun to be out here and see the kids. They've had their summer. They've changed. They have new haircuts and new clothes and backpacks. It's exciting to see all of the new faces, too," she said.

Sayre said the school doesn't have as much of an issue with people breaking school zone laws because it's not located on a main road.

But, that doesn't mean they don't push safety reminders.

There's two major rules drivers have to follow if they don't want to wind up with a big fat ticket.

Drivers can't illegally pass a school bus that's picking children up or dropping them off.

That offense is automatically upgraded to a felony if there's an injury involved.

The speed limit in a school zone also drops to 15 miles per hour before and after school.

Drivers can expect a stiff fine and six points added to their license if they break that law.

Authorities said they'll do whatever it takes to keep the children safe.

"Pay attention. Get off your cell phone. Don't be distracted, because there are going to be children present. You just have to be safe," said Corporal Kevin Oldham, Charleston Police Department.

Thus far, most of the tickets handed out have been speed-related, authorities said.

Next week, drivers can expect the same type of police patrols near school zones.