PORTLAND, Ore. -- Portland police were cracking down on drivers in school zones to protect students starting classes this week.

“During the mission, officers will place special emphasis on enforcing traffic laws in school zones, bus zones and crosswalks,” said Sergeant Brian Schmautz.

Officers will also enforce laws regarding parking in and around school zones.

Patrols will be conducted from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. during the lunch hour and from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The speed limit in school zones is 20 miles per hour between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. or anytime the school zone lights are flashing. Breaking this law could cost you. Fines for speeding in a school zone could be as high as $206 for as little as eleven miles over the posted speed, police said.

“Drivers are strongly encouraged to slow down and watch out for our younger citizens,” said Sgt. Schmautz.

Some districts in Portland started school Tuesday, September 2nd. More than 42,000 students were scheduled to begin fall classes Wednesday, September 3rd.