ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. — Ferbruary 7th is School Crossing Guard Appreciation day in Florida, and one of our local guards is receiving state-wide recognition.
The Florida Department of Transportation awarded Stephanie Collins with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office the 2024 ‘Florida School Crossing Guard of the Year - Extra Mile Award.’
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“Stephanie goes the extra mile by engaging with students in a positive and friendly manner,” according to the announcement. “She often offers words of encouragement and advice, fostering a sense of safety and security among the children. Her commitment to her role enhances the overall professionalism of the agency and contributes to a safer school environment.”
The Sheriff’s Office says they currently have more than 60 crossing guards helping to keep local students safe. The county is currently hiring for the position, which lists starting pay at $19.95 per hour
Crossing Guard of the Year went to Douglas McIntyre with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
For the last 15 years, school crossing guards in Florida have been celebrated on the first Friday of February.
“Each school day, Florida’s school crossing guards help ensure the safety of some of our communities’ smallest road users and their families through their unwavering commitment to public safety and education of responsible pedestrian behaviors,” said FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “On School Crossing Guard Appreciation Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to these community heroes who selflessly volunteer their time to keep our schoolchildren safe.”
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