Every year it happens. Parents are handed a list of things their child is going to need for school. The list includes things like notebooks, pencils, paper, calculators, etc. I would like to encourage you to put some other things on your list this year.

• An Ear. Listen to your children. It comes easy for us as parents to do all the talking, but we need to learn to listen. Listen to their dreams, gripes, and hurts. Keep the line of communication open.

• A Picket Fence. Boundaries. Sit down and share with your kids what you expect from them. Don’t make them have to guess what it is you want from them. Unknown expectations are unmet expectations.

• A Warning Label. Warn them about how important it is to choose the right friends, to avoiding drugs and alcohol. Teach them to make smarter choices which leads to better chances of a good outcome.

•A Clock and Calendar. Give them your time! Every child, no matter their age, spells love T.I.M.E.

The White County Sheriff’s Office is here to serve you in supporting you as a parent and doing our part to keep your kids safe this new school year. Let us know how we can assist you.

- Ricky Shourd, Sheriff