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BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — MassDOT is encouraging people to show appreciation for their local crossing guard.
As part of the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program, MassDOT has announced its fourth annual Crossing Guard Appreciation Campaign. The 2024 campaign begins with the nomination period for the Crossing Guard of the Year Award, followed by Crossing Guard Appreciation Day on Wednesday, March 20, and concludes with announcing the Crossing Guard of the Year winner(s).
The winner(s) will also be recognized at the Safe Routes to School Awards Ceremony in June.
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"Crossing Guards in our state go above and beyond every day in ensuring the safety of our children and also in helping to instill good habits for all roadway users," Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt said in a press release. "We are pleased that during March we have the chance to recognize crossing guards for the positive impact they have on community members and to offer this program as a way for members of the public to spotlight individuals who put themselves out there in helping students travel safely between home and schools."
Nominations are due by 5 p.m. on March 20. Schools must be SRTS partners in order for their crossing guards to be eligible for the award. Previous winners are not eligible to win this year.
Last year's Crossing Guard of the Year was Debbie Lang of Boston. Honorable Mention Awards went to Cheryl Anziano of Chicopee, Linda Carella of Arlington, and Claire MacPherson of Brookline.
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