AUBURN – Sheriff Guy Desjardins and several of his top administrators plan to join patrol deputies in their efforts to watch over children as schools in rural Androscoggin County open and close.

“We just want as many cars out there as possible,” Desjardins said.

In part, it’s a show of force, a deterrent to people speeding through school zones or driving past stopped buses, Desjardins said.

It’s also an effort to reach out into the community, something that Desjardins has been pushing for since he was a candidate for office.

For some people, the image of the county cruisers will provide a reminder to residents that someone is watching out for them, particularly in towns that have no other police.

“I think it’s part of my job,” the sheriff said. “I did it when I was the chief of police in Sabattus.”

Joining the sheriff will be Patrol Division Capt. Ray Lafrance and acting Chief Deputy Eric Samson.