Crossing Guard Crossing

Wallyhood reader and neighbor Anne tipped us off to the following need in our community:

For several years, Mel helped children cross 40th street on their way to and from John Stanford International School every morning and afternoon. He was an dedicated and friendly presence in the neighborhood. He was there—rain or shine—with a huge smile and a warm greeting for all who passed by.

This year, Mel accepted a crossing guard position at an elementary school in his neighborhood.  He is greatly missed, not only by the children who remember him for handing out pencils on the first day of school, candy on Halloween, Valentines, and just because, and erasers for the last day, but he is also mourned by the parents on the south side of 40th who relied on him to get their children across a road which often feels like you are playing frogger with your life.

The school district is searching for a new crossing guard, but with the school year nearly 20 percent over, no one has accepted the job.  If you are interested, or know someone who might be, here is the job advertisement.  I am guessing the hours would be 7-8 AM and 2-3 PM.