Moorhead Police Department Provides Safety Information Ahead of First Day of School

Moorhead Area Public Schools begin classes on Monday, August 31. As the community prepares for the new school year, the City of Moorhead continues its commitment to student safety as part of an ongoing effort to honor the memory of Adam Amin, a 9-year-old S.G. Reinertsen Elementary student who tragically lost his life in a crosswalk crash in 2025. This year, additional Moorhead Police officers and department volunteers will again be on duty to greet students, monitor school zones, assist with traffic flow, and help ensure students arrive and leave safely.

The return to school always brings a noticeable increase in activity around intersections, crosswalks, and school entrances. “The first day back is exciting for kids, and there’s a lot of movement around our schools. We need drivers to slow down, pay attention, and help us keep everyone safe,” Police Chief Chris Helmick. “A little extra care from all of us makes a big difference.”

The department reminds families that students use many different ways to get to school, including walking, biking, e‑scooters, and e‑bikes. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to review safety basics with their children and be aware of Minnesota State Statutes and City Ordinances related to micromobility devices such as e-scooters and e-bikes.

Minnesota updated its school bus law, with changes taking effect on August 1, 2026. Drivers must now stop at least 20 feet from a school bus as soon as its red lights begin flashing, regardless of whether the stop arm is out and activated. Violations carry a minimum fine of $500, and the law applies to vehicles approaching from either direction on undivided roadways. Penalties can increase if children are outside the bus or if a driver passes on the right side. Buses are equipped with cameras, and the MPD works closely with Moorhead Area Public Schools to investigate violations.

On the first day of school, Moorhead Police officers and department volunteers will be posted near school entrances during arrival and dismissal. Citywide enforcement will focus on speeds, stop sign and stoplight violations, crosswalk usage, and compliance with the updated bus law.

Drivers are asked to keep the following in mind:

• Reduce speeds in school zones and residential areas
• Follow all traffic signals and stop signs
• Yield to pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks
• Stop for school buses when red lights begin flashing
• Watch for micromobility users in bike lanes and along the road edge
• Plan for heavier traffic near schools and allow extra time

“We want to see every student get to and from school safely,” Chief Helmick said. “If everyone can do their part in following these law, it helps protects our community members and keeps neighborhoods safe. Our officers care deeply about this community, and we’ll be out there to support families, students, bus drivers, and staff. That’s a priority for our department every single day.”