Quebec’s crossing guards are receiving some gratitude as part of the second annual National School Crossing Guard Appreciation Week. It takes place from Oct. 26 to Nov. 1. Tuesday morning, Montreal police (SPVM) held a media event at the corner of Fielding and West Hill avenues, a busy intersection in Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce, to mark the occasion. “We’re here to give our love to crossing guards,” said Montreal police Spokesperson Jean-Pierre Brabant, who shared that his mother was a crossing guard for many years. “They’re really important for the community and for our youth and students who are going to school. First of all, for safety measures, and to make sure they go safely to school and come back safely home, which for a parent is really important.” The initiative aims to recognize the essential role of these workers who, morning, noon and after school, rain, snow or shine, ensure children’s safety near schools. Brabant said they’re an important partner for police, schools and the community. “They’re the first people you’re going to see in the morning. They are our eyes and ears,” he said. Crossing guards not only help students get across the street safely, but they also get the attention of drivers, bike riders and runners, said Brabant. ‘I love this job’ Christine Mantzavrakos, who has been a crossing guard for six years, said she feels the appreciation from kids and their parents. On Tuesday, she showed off the many letters, drawings and gifts she’s received from children on their way to school. “The amount of ‘thank yous’ and ‘hellos,’ ‘I’m glad to see you today,’… we’re very appreciated,” she said. “It’s very respected and appreciated as a role.” Mantzavrakos said she took the job as a stop-gap replacement after her local crossing guard told her he was retiring. What was meant to be a fill-in role turned into much more for her. “I thought it was going to be temporary, but I just love the job so much. It’s allowed me to be part of the community,” she said. “I wanted to be part of the community, but I didn’t know how to get to do that, and it’s been great since. So, there was no reason for me to stop. I love it. I love this job.” Throughout the week, the public is invited to perform small acts of appreciation for their local crossing guard. “A smile, a wave, or a ‘thank you’ can help acknowledge their daily commitment,” said Quebec’s Ministry of Transportation and Sustainable Mobility in a news release.
