Only one job could entice people like Pam Miller out of retirement.
“I love the kids and believe it’s crucial to keep them as safe as possible,” said Miller, a crossing guard with the City of Rowlett.
In preparation for the 2024-2025 school year, cities and districts from Rowlett to Mesquite have been training both new and returning school crossing guards.
Retirees like Kenneth Gregory from Mesquite find joy in seeing children grow up over the years. “Kids are the best part of this job,” he said. “People wave as they drive by, and it’s unlike any other job I’ve had.”
Mesquite ISD, along with other North Texas school districts, constantly seeks individuals willing to handle the unique two-hour shifts, often in extreme weather conditions, from intense heat to freezing cold.
“Our crossing guards are truly neighborhood superheroes,” said Cheryl Courson of Mesquite ISD. “They keep our students safe.”
Though rewarding, the job carries risks and many near-misses. “I’ve nearly been hit four times,” said John Tywater, a Mesquite ISD crossing guard. “My former boss had his foot run over, even while wearing bright orange. Drivers need to understand that those flashing lights are not just for decoration.”
In the last half of the school year alone, Rowlett police issued 62 citations for violations in school zones. Officers are particularly vigilant during the first week of school and deeply appreciate the efforts of community crossing guards.
“School safety is our top priority,” said Rowlett PD Lt. Vedran Nosic. “We have a zero-tolerance policy for violations. We issue citations not because we want to, but to ensure compliance and keep our school zones safe.”
Miller recounts moments when she’s felt dangerously close to traffic while standing in the crosswalk with children. “Sometimes you feel like you’d almost throw yourself in front of the cars just to keep them safe,” she said.
As the new school year begins, crossing guards have a message for drivers: “Please, please, please pay attention to us,” urged Mesquite ISD parent and crossing guard Charity Abouzar. “We’re out there to protect children.”
