Starting today through Friday, June 9, the City of Toronto is marking School Crossing Guard Appreciation Week, a dedicated initiative aimed at recognizing the significant contributions that school crossing guards make in enhancing road safety within our school communities.
The City’s School Crossing Program is the largest of its kind in Canada, with 825 school crossing guards working to improve road safety in Toronto. They do so by helping children cross the road and reminding drivers and people cycling of the presence of pedestrians at key intersections.
This year, the City is encouraging the public to participate in School Crossing Guard Appreciation Week by handing out thank you cards to school crossing guards. Giving a card is a simple but meaningful way to show support and let all guards know that their efforts are appreciated.
The public can download and print a template thank you card by visiting the School Crossing Guard Appreciation Week webpage.
While handing out cards, it’s important to be respectful of the school crossing guard’s time and to approach them only once they have helped everyone safely cross the road.
The School Crossing Guard Program is one of the many programs under the City’s Vision Zero Road Safety Plan, which aims to reduce the number of traffic-related injuries and fatalities in Toronto. More information is available on the City’s Vision Zero Road Safety Plan webpage.
Quote:
“School Crossing Guard Appreciation Week serves as a reminder of the significant contributions that school crossing guards make to enhance road safety in Toronto and keep our kids safe. I’m encouraging residents, especially students and their families, to join us in expressing appreciation by handing out a thank you card to their nearest school crossing guard.”
– Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie (Scarborough-Rouge Park)
Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.