Crossing Guard

School Crossing GuardTo provide safe access via walk paths to and from Brookwood School District 167 property by providing adult supervised crossing(s) at designated public streets.Direct or escort pedestrians safely across streets, stopping traffic as necessary. Direct traffic movement or warn of hazards, using signs, flags, lanterns, and hand signals. Communicate traffic and crossing rules and other information to students and adults. Learn the location and purpose of street traffic signs within assigned patrol areas. Serves as a good example to children. Maintains regular and consistent attendance and punctuality. Follows universal precautions in accordance with OSHA standards. Other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned by the Superintendent.Salary, fringe benefits, and work year to be established by the Board of Education. Performance of this job will be evaluated annually in accordance with provisions and the Board's policy on Evaluation of Educational Personnel.Ensure Safety First: Safely guide children and other pedestrians across streets, especially during school start and end times. Monitor traffic and ensure that all vehicles have come to a complete stop before allowing anyone to cross.Be Vigilant and Alert: Constantly observe traffic flow, driver behavior, and pedestrian movement. Stay off phones or any distractions – 100% focus is required at all times.Professional Conduct: Serve as a role model by following traffic rules and behaving respectfully. Maintain a calm, friendly, and authoritative demeanor – especially when dealing with children, parents, or aggressive drivers.Communicate Clearly: Use hand signals and/or a whistle confidently to direct both pedestrians and drivers. Give clear instructions to children – especially younger ones – who may be unsure what to do.Wear Proper Gear: Always wear high-visibility clothing (like reflective vests) and use a standard stop paddle for directing traffic. Be presentable and weather-appropriate – the role is outdoor in all types of weather.Be Dependable and Punctual: Arrive on time for assigned shifts – children rely on consistency. Stay for the entire duty period, including early arrivals or late dismissals if needed.Understand the Law and Protocols: Know local traffic laws and school crossing procedures. Be prepared to report incidents, unsafe driver behavior, or hazards to the appropriate authorities.Engage Positively with the Community: Greet children and parents warmly; help foster a safe and welcoming atmosphere. Recognize familiar faces and be alert to any unusual behavior or situations.Things Crossing Guards Should Avoid: Getting Distracted: Avoid using your phone, eating, or chatting excessively while on duty. Always keep your eyes on traffic and the crosswalk. Standing in Unsafe Spots: Don't stand in the middle of the road unless it's time to stop traffic. Stay visible but safe when not actively crossing people. Turning Your Back to Traffic: Always face the direction traffic is coming from when entering the street – you need to see the drivers and make eye contact if possible. Waving Cars Through While Kids Are Present: Never signal vehicles to go through when children are waiting or crossing. Always prioritize pedestrians. Crossing Without the Sign: Don't cross anyone without holding up your stop sign clearly. It's your badge of authority – use it every time. Letting Kids Cross Alone: Avoid assuming kids will cross safely on their own – always escort them or guide them firmly but kindly. Arguing With Drivers or Parents: Stay calm and professional, even if someone is rude or impatient. Let your supervisor or local authorities handle repeat offenders. Not Wearing Safety Gear: Don't skip wearing your reflective vest or using your stop paddle – they're crucial for visibility. Crossing During Unofficial Times: Stick to your assigned times. If you're not scheduled or trained for certain times of the day, it's risky to act on your own. Ignoring Weather Conditions: Don't forget to adjust your stance and alertness depending on weather – slippery roads, fog, or snow make your job harder and more dangerous. Sitting in Your Car: Crossing Guards need to be visible and ready at all times to ensure student safety.