UNION COUNTY, AR – The familiar sights and sounds of yellow school buses, crowded drop-off lines, and students carrying brand new backpacks returned Thursday as the 2026-27 school year officially got underway for two of Union County’s five public school districts.

Students in the El Dorado School District and Strong-Huttig School District were the first in the county to head back to class, marking the unofficial end of summer vacation for thousands of area families.

The remaining districts will begin classes over the next week:

• Junction City School District – Monday, August 10
• Parkers Chapel School District – Wednesday, August 12
• Smackover-Norphlet School District – Thursday, August 13

As classrooms fill once again, local law enforcement officials are reminding motorists that school traffic will increase dramatically over the coming days. Drivers are encouraged to leave a little earlier for work, remain patient during morning and afternoon commute times, and stay alert for children who may unexpectedly enter roadways.

School zones will once again be active, and motorists should pay close attention to reduced speed limits and crossing guards. Even a few miles per hour can make the difference in preventing a tragedy. El Dorado Police Chief Ricky Roberts said, “As in the years past, EPD Officers will be working school zones as children arrive and are let out of school each day. We ask that you slow down while traveling in and around school campus. If you are not dropping off picking up children, please avoid driving in the school zones during such times. Let’s have a safe school year for all.”

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Perhaps the most important reminder is school bus safety. Under Arkansas law, drivers must stop when a school bus displays flashing red lights and extends its stop arm, allowing children to safely board or exit the bus. Violating this law carries significant penalties under Isaac’s Law, legislation enacted after the tragic death of an Arkansas student who was struck by a vehicle while exiting a school bus. Parents are also encouraged to talk with their children about bus stop safety, using crosswalks when available, avoiding distractions such as cell phones while walking, and remaining aware of their surroundings before and after school. Safety experts also recommend that families ensure schools have current emergency contact information before the school year gets fully underway.

For many students, Thursday represented more than just the first day of classes. It marked reunions with friends, new teachers, fresh opportunities, and the beginning of another chapter in their educational journey.

Whether it’s a kindergartner climbing aboard a school bus for the very first time or a senior preparing for graduation, this begins a school year filled with possibilities.

South Arkansas Now wishes all students, teachers, administrators, support staff, and families across Union County a safe, successful, and rewarding school year.

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STRONG, AR – According to reports from inside the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Daryell Howell, the Mayor of Strong, Arkansas has been taken into custody by the FBI. No details are available from the Western District of Arkansas US Attorney’s Office as of this posting.

This is a developing story, as more details are made available, we will pass that information along. 

EL DORADO, AR – For the rest of today, (Tuesday, August 4th) $1 from every Blizzard sold at El Dorado’s Dairy Queen will go to the Boys & Girls Club of Union County to assist with after school program supplies.

Dairy Queen is at 2201 North West Avenue in El Dorado and will be open until 10:00 P.M. tonight.