NATIONAL CROSSING GUARD DAY
Fast Facts
- CELEBRATION
- Honors every crossing guard who shows up day after day, heat, rain, snow, angry drivers, unsafe conditions to protect our kids
- CELEBRATED
- Each year on January 28th
- FOUNDED
- Founded in 2026 by the family of Steven Winn
- STAT
- Nearly 25,000 children injured annually in school zone traffic accidents across the U.S.
NATIONAL CROSSING GUARD DAY
National Crossing Guard Day on January 28th is dedicated to the unsung heroes who put their lives on the line daily to protect our most valuable packages--our school children. Today, honor every crossing guard who shows up, day after day, through heat, rain, snow, angry drivers, and unsafe conditions to protect our kids.
#NationalCrossingGuardDay
A crossing guard (also known as a school crossing patrol or guard) is a dedicated community safety official responsible for visually stopping traffic so pedestrians—primarily young students—can cross busy streets safely on their way to and from school. Equipped with high-visibility safety vests, stop paddles, and sometimes whistles, crossing guards act as human traffic control devices operating in designated school zones and busy intersections.
For many students, a crossing guard is the very first smiling face they see outside their family in the morning and the last one they see as they head home. They build rapport with families, learn kids' names, offer words of encouragement, and foster a warm, connected neighborhood environment.
Crossing Guard Responsibilities
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Monitor traffic gaps by assessing vehicular speed and distance to identify safe gaps in traffic before stepping into the street.
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Stop traffic safely by stepping out into the crosswalk with a raised STOP sign to signal drivers to come to a complete stop.
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Escort children, parents, and pedestrians safely across the street within marked crosswalks.
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Observe surroundings by scanning for distracted drivers, speeding vehicles, or potential hazards (like ice, debris, or turning cars).
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Teach pedestrian safety by modeling proper sidewalk behavior, reminding kids to look both ways, and teaching them not to run into the street.
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Report hazards and violations, such as erratic drivers, reckless behavior, or broken signal lights to local police or school administration.
Crossing guards are a vital resource in the community, serving as a physical barrier and warning sign that slows down traffic in high-risk areas. When parents know there is a reliable crossing guard on route, they feel more confident letting their children walk or bike to school.
Did you know?
A school crossing guard is officially considered one of the most dangerous municipal occupations.
Driver distraction, aggressive driving, and speeding near drop-off areas increase accident rates for crossing guards by 65%. At least 80% of all pedestrians hit by a vehicle inside a designated school zone are adults, which includes parents, school staff, and crossing guards standing in crosswalks.
According to the Transportation Research Board and the National Safety Council, approximately 25,000 children are injured every year in school zone traffic accidents across the U.S. In addition, roughly 100 children are killed each year in collisions while walking to or from school. Unfortunately, data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) indicates that 59% of U.S. public schools do not have crossing guards stationed on the immediate surrounding streets, creating significant gaps in pedestrian safety.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL CROSSING GUARD DAY
National Crossing Guard Day presents the perfect opportunity to take time to acknowledge the selfless people whose smiling face is the first thing children see on their way to school and the last one they see as they head home. Here are a few more ideas on how to show your appreciation:
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A simple, warm greeting or a high-five can brighten a crossing guard's entire shift.
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Encourage schools or student councils to have kids write handmade thank-you notes or post banners at crosswalks.
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Gift your crossing guard a thermal travel mug filled with hot coffee or a pair of hand-warmers on a chilly January morning.
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Drivers can pledge to eliminate distractions, obey school zone speed limits, and strictly follow crossing guard signals.
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Show your support by saying thank you to a crossing guard and start a conversation about the importance of crossing guards on social media using the hashtag #NationalCrossingGuardDay.
STORY BEHIND NATIONAL CROSSING GUARD DAY
National Crossing Guard Day was submitted by the family of Steven Winn, who was sadly struck and killed while on duty as a crossing guard on January 28, 2025, by a negligent driver who ran a red light. Known as the Crossing Guard Santa by his students, Steven's family wanted to honor Steven's memory by reminding drivers to slow down, pay attention, and respect school zones. It could help save lives.
The Registrar at National Day Calendar approved National Crossing Guard Day to be celebrated each year on January 28, beginning in 2027.
About Steven
Steven Keith Winn, 67, passed away on the morning of January 28th while doing what he loved most—serving as a crossing guard and ensuring the safety of the children in his community.
Steve had a deep love for both his family and his country. He proudly served in the Utah Army National Guard for 26 years. Steve’s commitment to serving his community never wavered, and in his retirement, he embraced one of his most cherished roles as a crossing guard. He became a beloved figure in the neighborhood, known for his warmth and care as he ensured the safety of the children every day. Steve treasured the chance to greet the kids, always looking forward to their smiles. During the holiday season, he delighted in spreading joy by dressing up as Santa and passing out candy canes. He was affectionately known as the Crossing Guard Santa, creating moments of magic for the children he served.
Above all, Steve’s greatest love and devotion was to his family, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He was a steadfast and loving husband, father of 10 children and grandfather, always putting the needs of his loved ones above his own.
Steve was known for his kindness, cheerfulness, and love for everyone he met. His warmth and compassion left a lasting impression on all who knew him and he is deeply missed by his family and community.