Bradenton police are urging drivers to slow down in school zones after cameras recorded 50 speeders on the first day of the 2025-26 school year — including one motorist clocked at 78 mph.

Each driver was going at least 10 mph over the posted limit during school hours, earning a $100 ticket that will be mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner.

The automated enforcement program now covers 10 schools and operates from 30 minutes before the first bell until 30 minutes after dismissal, regardless of whether school zone lights are flashing. Officials stress that drivers must always obey the posted speed limit.

“If the school zone limit is 25 mph and you’re driving 35 mph or higher, you’ll get a $100 fine — even if it’s the middle of the day and the lights aren’t on,” said Bradenton Police spokesperson Meredith Censullo.

This is the second year the city has used school zone speed cameras. Last year, in just six months of operation, more than 12,000 violations were issued. Police say the aim is safety — protecting children, crossing guards, and neighbors, especially in residential areas — not revenue.

The most extreme case so far: a driver barreling through a school zone at 53 mph over the limit.

School Zone Enforcement Details

• Ballard Elementary – 7:55 a.m.–3:45 p.m., 15 mph during drop-off/pick-up, 30 mph mid-day
• Bradenton Christian – 7:30 a.m.–3:35 p.m., 20 mph drop-off/pick-up, 40 mph mid-day
• JP Miller Elementary – 7:55 a.m.–3:45 p.m., 20 mph drop-off/pick-up, 35 mph mid-day
• Manatee Elementary – 7:55 a.m.–3:45 p.m., 15 mph drop-off/pick-up, 35 mph mid-day
• Manatee High – 7 a.m.–2:55 p.m., 20 mph drop-off/pick-up, 30–35 mph mid-day
• Moody Elementary – 7:55 a.m.–3:45 p.m., 20 mph drop-off/pick-up, 20 mph mid-day
• Sugg Middle – 7:50 a.m.–4:30 p.m., 20 mph drop-off/pick-up, 40 mph mid-day
• Prine Elementary – 7:55 a.m.–3:45 p.m., 15 mph drop-off/pick-up, 30 mph mid-day
• GD Rogers Elementary – 7:55 a.m.–3:45 p.m., 15 mph drop-off/pick-up, 25 mph mid-day
• Sea Breeze Elementary – 7:55 a.m.–3:45 p.m., 20 mph drop-off/pick-up, 25 mph mid-day

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