Jacqueline Bellos, a crossing guard for the Midland Street Elementary School, is one of three “2024 Crossing Guard Champions” recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s Safe Routes to School Program, MassDOT announced on Friday, May 17.
More than 500 nominations were submitted for Crossing Guard of the Year, Honorable Mention, and three Crossing Guard Champions. The winners will be recognized in a ceremony on June 6.
“Jackie Bellos is the heartbeat of safety at Midland Street School, where she’s served as a crossing guard for an impressive three decades,” the Midland Street School wrote in its nomination form. “Her commitment to the well-being of children goes beyond just guiding them safely across the street. She takes the time to know each child by name, offering encouragement and fostering a sense of trust and security.
“Her watchful eye and quick reflexes have prevented countless accidents, earning her the admiration and gratitude of both parents and staff alike. She is not just a crossing guard; she is an essential part of the Midland family, and her impact will be felt for years to come.”
The Massachusetts Safe Routes To School Program, sponsored by MassDOT and with funds from the Federal Highway Administration, promotes safer routes for students to actively get to and from school by fostering partnerships between community-led organizations, local law enforcement, education leaders, and public health departments. The program currently serves more than 1,160 schools in over 280 communities across the Commonwealth. Through these partnerships, the program highlights the importance of pedestrian and bicycle safety, and provides information, materials, and resources to support schools and communities with their local SRTS initiatives.