On Monday, students in Charlotte County will once again make their way to their respective schools to start a new and exciting educational year.

For some, there will be different challenges, such as starting school for the first time, moving up to a new school or entering the final year of high school.

Drivers, let us remember to take extra caution for the students who are loading and unloading from school buses. Share the road and watch out for each other.

Please make an honest attempt to eliminate any technological distractions on your drive in the morning on the way to work or in the afternoon when students are preparing to travel home.

After all, we all have a responsibility as a community to ensure that students have a safe journey to and from school.

Students, as you prepare to start classes, remember that these are the best years of your life. No matter what you go on to do in the world, the memories you make in Charlotte County Public Schools will forever play a special role in the person you become.

Make it a point to try something new this year. Perhaps there’s a class you’ve always wanted to take, but never did.

What about trying out for a sport? If sports aren’t exactly your thing, each school offers a variety of clubs catering to different interests.

Never hesitate to look to your teachers and administrative staff for support. Charlotte County has a wonderful staff that is dedicated to our children.

Parents, take the extra step and become a little more involved in your child’s education this year. If you have never attended a school board meeting in the county, find some time to sit in on a few. Find out who your school board representative is and become familiar with them. Elected officials are willing to listen to your concerns and help.

As you can see, it truly does take a village to raise a child.

I wish the students, staff and teachers in Charlotte County Public Schools a successful 2017-18 school year.

Italia Gregory is community editor of The Charlotte Gazette. Her email address is Italia.Gregory@TheCharlotteGazette.com.