Crossing guard Ken Taylor is joined by neighbour and big fan Kallie Sylvester. (Sherry Haaima photo)
Students, their families, teachers and school staff aren’t the only ones getting set for the hustle and bustle of back to school, let’s not forget our crossing guards!
Renfrew’s Ken Taylor, well-known for his friendly smiles and waves, has been manning his post on Raglan Street South near St. Thomas School for 14 years.
Through rain, snow, extreme heat, you name it, Ken can be found on duty at the start and end of each day, working to keep kids safe.
Why does he do it?
And his young charges love him right back. He’s had teens bring him coffee a number of times and he’s been going all summer on the gift cards presented to him at the end of the school year.
He’s had so many offers of help from kids that he now has a mini stop sign on a stick that they can use alongside him.
Does he have any words of wisdom for returning students?
And what’s his message for drivers?
Ken’s been on the job long enough now that he’s seen some of the students through their entire school career, something he finds pretty special.
The community is grateful for the hard work and dedication of all Renfrew’s crossing guards. Here’s to a safe school year!
(Written by Sherry Haaima)