SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — A Seminole County crossing guard was named Florida’s crossing guard of the year by the Florida Department of Transportation Friday.
>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<
Governor Ron DeSantis signed a proclamation Friday declaring February 4, 2022 Crossing Guard Appreciation Day.
READ: USDA sets new rules for school lunches
To honor the work they do day in and day out helping kids get to and from school safely, FDOT recognizes individual performances each year with Crossing Guard of the Year and “Extra Mile” awards.
Pat Alfonso of the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office was named the 2021 Crossing Guard of the Year by FDOT Friday.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Alfonso has worked as one of their crossing guards for 14 years.
READ: Labor market shrugs off omicron surge
Alfonso is known to spend time educating the students she works with on safe crossing habits and is well known by kids and parents alike for her dedication to their safety.
She’s described as a “devoted team member who’s always willing to help when needed.”
Alfonso also contributes to the local homeless community.
READ: Florida lawmakers advance bill to prohibit uncomfortable topics
“Crossing guards have one of the most important jobs in public service,” FDOT Secretary Kevin Thibault said. “Their dedication deserves recognition today and every day.”
FDOT named Fort Walton Beach Police Department Crossing Guard Heather Calloway as the recipient of their 2021 “Extra Mile” award.
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.