Scituate Public Schools are set to reopen for grades 1 through 12 this Wednesday, August 27, marking a shift to a pre-Labor Day start designed to help students acclimate. School Committee Chair Nicole Bolini highlighted the town-wide preparations, including new traffic patterns at the high school where left-hand turns are prohibited between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. to ensure safe crossings on Route 3A. Bolini also noted that local artist Michelle Lec and her team spent the summer painting unique crosswalks at all six schools to represent the specific values of each campus. Though beginning before Labor Day is a shift, it allows for a gentle settling into the classrooms for students and an opportunity to learn expectations, Bolini said, noting that buildings are prepped and awaiting the arrival of the student body.

Public safety remains a top priority as the community transitions into the fall. Town Administrator James Boudreau urged drivers to remain vigilant as children return to bus stops and bike paths, stating, please use extra caution as you're navigating the roads this week as people get used to going back to school. Boudreau also reported that the Massachusetts Department of Public Health detected West Nile Virus in local mosquito samples, while Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) was found in neighboring Norwell. Beyond health concerns, the town is beginning trenchless sewer pipe rehabilitation on Ermine Street, Thelma Way, and several other roads. Boudreau advised residents in these work zones to keep their toilet lids down as activity from the equipment on the street can cause back pressure and splashing in the bowl.

The update concluded with several community reminders, including the 10th annual overdose awareness vigil at the Scituate Lighthouse scheduled for Sunday, August 31, at 5:30 a.m. Mr. Goodrich noted the busy upcoming weekend, which features the Horribles Parade in Humarock on Saturday and the Sand Hills SBA parade on Sunday afternoon. As the town manages a drop in reservoir levels to 17 inches below the spillway, officials also reminded residents that dog licenses must be updated annually through the Town Clerk’s office to avoid fees doubling on October 1. Looking forward to the academic year and the conclusion of the season, Goodrich remarked, It is August 25th, coming down to the last breaths of summer; can't wait to get those kids right back in school.