The Massachusetts Department of Transportation launch of the sixth annual Safe Routes to School Crossing Guard Appreciation Campaign, which recognizes the role crossing guards play in keeping students and families safe across Massachusetts.
The campaign begins with a nomination period for Crossing Guard of the Year, followed by Crossing Guard Appreciation Day on March 25. The announcement of the 2026 Crossing Guard of the Year award winners will take place at the Annual Safe Routes to School Awards Ceremony in June.
“All crossing guards play a vital role in keeping students and families safe across the Commonwealth, and while this contest provides an opportunity for the public to recognize those who serve their own communities with dedication every day, know that all are invaluable and we thank them for their service. Under the Healey-Driscoll Administration, safety remains everyone’s top priority, and we encourage the public to nominate the crossing guards who continue to make a difference in the lives of students and families. Thank you to everyone who helps keep our children safe on their way to and from school,” said Interim MassDOT Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng.
Last year’s program received many nominations, resulting in multiple honorees at the 2025 awards ceremony. Jill Boyd (Braintree), Soleil Hanger (Pittsfield), and Lie-Mei Ho (Newton) received the Crossing Guard Champion Award. Bridget and Gerry Buckley (Boston) received Honorable Mention, while Gina Hayes (Malden) was named Crossing Guard of the Year.
The nomination period opened on March 1 and closes at 5:00 p.m. on March 25. On that day, schools and students are encouraged to recognize their community’s crossing guards in meaningful ways. Nomination forms, printable thank-you cards, and promotional flyers are available on the Safe Routes to School website under Engagement. Only SRTS partner schools are eligible; previous award recipients cannot be nominated again. The number of nominations does not affect selection chances; communities are encouraged to collaborate on thoughtful submissions.
The Massachusetts Safe Routes to School Program is sponsored by MassDOT with funding from the Federal Highway Administration. It promotes safe transportation for students through partnerships among community organizations, law enforcement, education leaders, and public health departments. The program serves more than 1,300 schools in over 285 communities statewide by providing resources and technical support for pedestrian and bicycle safety according to the official roster page.
