Don’t forget – put your cell phone down when you’re in a school zone.

A Texas law passed by the Legislature last year and effective Sept. 1, 2009, makes it illegal for a driver to use a cell phone inside a school zone.

The school zones are on Alister Street from Avenue C north to Beach Street, from Beach Street south on Station Street to Avenue C, and east on Avenue C to Alister Street.

Flashing lights alert motorists to the zones on Alister Street, but whether the zone is marked by a flashing light or not, the sign will note that it’s unlawful to use a cell phone in the school zone.

Offenders can be fined up to $200 on conviction.

The law applies only while school is in session, of course, and only to the driver of the vehicle.

“Officers will be especially vigilant as school starts, because young students will be gathering around the schools and in school zones,” said police Executive Lt. Darryl Johnson.

Johnson said officers also will be watching closely for speeders, particularly around the opening days of the school year.

School starts Monday, Aug. 23.