LAPD News:

The Los Alamos Police Department (LAPD) is reminding motorists to prepare for increased traffic and heightened pedestrian activity as students return to school on Monday, Aug. 10, 2026.

School start times are as follows:

• • • • • Elementary Schools: 8:10 a.m. (before-school activities begin at 7:30 a.m.)
        • Los Alamos Middle School: 8:40 a.m. (before-school activities begin at 8 a.m.)
        • Los Alamos High School: 8:30 a.m. (before-school activities begin at 8 a.m.)

With the start of the school year comes heavier traffic around schools and on main roadways during the morning and afternoon commute. Drivers are encouraged to allow extra travel time, reduce their speed in school zones, and remain alert for children walking, riding bicycles, and crossing streets.

Motorists should also pay close attention to school crossing guards, stop signs, traffic signals, marked crosswalks, and school buses loading and unloading students.

“The start of the school year means more children, parents, and school buses will be sharing our roadways,” said School Resource Officer (SRO) Sgt. Joseph Dezendorf. “Please plan ahead and leave a little earlier for your commute. Taking a few extra minutes can make all the difference in preventing a crash and keeping our community safe.”

Throughout the school year, LAPD SROs and the Traffic Unit will conduct increased patrols in and around school zones. Officers will focus on educating motorists and proactively enforcing traffic laws to improve safety for students, parents, school staff, and the community.

LAPD appreciates the community’s partnership in making the start of the school year a safe one for everyone. Please plan ahead, expect increased traffic beginning Monday morning, and help us keep our school zones safe.

For additional information, contact LAPD’s Emergency Communication Center at 505.662.8222.