Unsung Heroes: Crossing Guards

“A life lived for others, is the only life worth living.”

—Albert Einstein

Minivans weave their way gracefully through a caravan of yellow buses, performing a familiar kind of motorized ballet. Students file out of their parents vehicles, exit buses, and make their way safely to class. School is back in session. And amongst all this organized chaos, one brightly-adorned individual stands like a musical conductor, creating order: the crossing guard.

Since first being instituted in 1923—due to the concern of students walking to school unsupervised—the position of crossing guard has evolved beyond the humble “safety patrol”. It is now comprised of part time school staff, parents, and volunteers with the unified desire to promote safety for students around the world. Though every school system handles their crossing guard details differently, they are often required to maintain their composure while dealing with angry parents, oblivious and distracted drivers, and inclement weather in the winter months.

“Crossing Guard Appreciation Day” is May 1st, but we want to express our thanks early to this group of unselfish citizens, who place students’ well-being above their own. As the weather turns colder, we encourage you to reach out to a local crossing guard and let them know they’re appreciated with a kind word of gratitude, a smile, or even a pack of hand warmers!