Rain or shine, in freezing temps or extreme heat, Gainesville’s school crossing guards post up twice a day at intersections and crosswalks throughout the city, ensuring the students reach school safely.

On Friday morning, the Gainesville Police Department celebrated the dedicated group of 28 men and women who compose its School Crossing Guard Unit, in honor of Florida School Crossing Guard Appreciation Day. Speaker after speaker highlighted these community figures’ role beyond physical safety.

“We say they’re the first communication, that first good morning, that last goodbye, that tie your shoe, wipe your nose, all of that,” said Pamela Miles, GPD’s School Crossing Guard Coordinator. “They don’t even understand half the time the roles that they’re playing.”

Gainesville Police Chief Nelson Moya offered his appreciation for the unit’s critical support to everyday community life.

“You’re unsung only because you’re not on the front lines, but you are felt every day,” Moya told the crowd gathered in the station’s Hall of Heroes. “You’re not just crossing kids. You’re an extension of public safety, an extension of our organization.”

Miles invited the crowd to share a snippet of their eventful shifts that morning, which began with each school lighting up their marquees with appreciation. One said drivers rolled down car windows to express thanks, a community member delivered breakfast to another pair, and the students delivered tons of hugs and even handmade cards.

“Out of all the jobs I’ve had in my life, this is the most fulfilling,” said Cassandra Scott, whose posts are at Talbot Elementary School and Lincoln Middle School.

Lauren Dreama, a Norton Elementary School parent, recently took her appreciation to Facebook after she watched crossing guard Renee McCoy help a disheveled student adjust her coat and backpack one morning. Dreama was invited to the event to speak about McCoy, who was recognized as this year’s School Crossing Guard of the Year.

“I travel through the city for work, and I love seeing everyone smiling and waving, and the kids interacting with you,” Dreama told the group. “You guys are a huge part of their morning starts, even if they don’t see you and interact with you, we talk about you guys – the person who’s going to make sure they’re safe and that they get [to school].”

Miles said the community’s support strengthens the safety of both her unit and the students they serve.

“Crossing guards are very important, and I want [drivers] to look out for them because it’s dangerous out there,” Miles said. “They are our safety nets for our kids in our community.”