City Hiring School Crossing Guards

The City of San Angelo is seeking school crossing guard applicants willing to work approximately three hours each school day split between mornings and afternoons.

The City employs 25 part-time crossing guards who support 15 campuses throughout the community from 7 a.m.-8:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.-4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Applicants must pass a criminal background check and a physical, and must have transportation with a valid driver’s license and a phone upon which they can be reached.

Applications are available at cosatx.us/jobs or in Room 201 on the second floor of City Hall, 72 W. College Ave., from 8 a.m.-noon and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. weekdays.

“Our school crossing guards are an extraordinary group of dedicated people,” said Charles Hagen, the City’s safety coordinator. “Most are retired seniors who have a love for children. We depend on them to show up before dawn and again in the middle of the afternoon, no matter the weather conditions. They place themselves in harm’s way with each crossing.”

Hagen reminded motorists to use caution when driving through school zones, noting that inattentive, rushed and distracted drivers pose the greatest risk to schoolchildren and to crossing guards. State law prohibits drivers from using cell phones in active school zones, although hands-free devices are allowed. Violations can result in a maximum fine of $200 plus state court costs of $127.

Hagan offered the following school zone safety tips:

• For drivers

• Put away electronic devices, food and drinks so you stay focused on driving.
• Obey posted speed limits, which allow reaction time if a child unexpectedly darts across a street.
• Obey crossing guards’ directions and fully stop when they enter the roadway.
• Keep an eye on children along the roadway and at crossing locations.
• Obey crossing guards’ directions.
• Wait at the curb for the crossing guard to signal you to cross.
• Stay on sidewalks and crosswalks.

• For students