Back-to-school reminders

More than 25,000 Aiken County students head back to school Monday. As you prepare, keep in mind some changes for schools this year.

- Schools have an earlier start time and a later release time to accommodate a new early release program. On the first Wednesday of each month, students will be released two hours early. Check your school's Web site for the correct school hours.

- Students are no longer allowed to carry cell phones during school. They must be kept in a car or locker. Students must receive permission from the front office to use a cell phone. The first offense is one day of in-school suspension.

- The Area 2 bus parking lot has been moved to Mossy Creek Elementary from North Augusta Elementary. Look for more buses to use Five Notch and Scott roads in North Augusta. Expect buses to take an extra 20-30 minutes for the first few days of school. Routes and times are listed at www.aiken.k12.sc.us/site/transportation/schoolbusfacts.html.

- North Augusta Middle School is in the middle of remodeling. Temporary fences will mark the driveway for car-rider students.

- Parents and guardians should be mindful of traffic flow when dropping students off.

- Supply lists and registration information for students who have not yet enrolled can be found at www.aiken.k12.sc.us