AMA safety patrollers get a day in Lethbridge to celebrate community contributions

Local AMA safety patrollers got the day off after a year of making sure their fellow students could cross the street safely.

They spent a day at the University of Lethbridge to celebrate their achievements and take part in a series of fun STEM activities.

Almost 300 students from across the region packed into the Co-op Centre for Sport and Wellness.

There, students spent the day trying out different science and math activities.

“They’re getting to interact with each other and get out of the classroom. They’re still learning, but having a really fun day,” said Allison Purcell, AMA school safety patrol co-ordinator.

Students were able to learn about robotics and aerodynamics in engaging ways.

They also built their teamwork skills through a play on the classic egg-and-spoon race.

They appreciated the day off, but many would do the job even without the perk.

“When I first heard of the school patrol, I thought of it as a chance to get more responsible,” said one student.

“This is something anybody can really step up to as long as they can respect and really act well,” said another.

Several local community members were out taking part in the day and thanking the patrollers.

Among them was Lethbridge Mayor Blaine Hyggen, a former safety patroller himself.

“(I have) appreciation for the kids and the work that they do,” said Hyggen.

“They’re providing a volunteer work to the community, and I really think that’s a stepping stone for later in life.”

The local safety patrollers work closely with Lethbridge police.

Police can see the leadership and responsibility the kids are developing.

“These children and our students are taking on that extra leadership role in the community, with the general public as well as their peers,” said Const. Barent Goodrich.

“(It’s) absolutely commendable.”

Since the program’s inception in 1928, there have been zero fatalities on crosswalks being worked by the safety patrollers.