Tuesday, August 2, 2022

Austin Faces Crossing Guard Shortage as Start of School Year Approaches

Austin Public Works Safe Routes to School Program is hiring crossing guards to help young students get to school safely. Crossing guards are urgently needed at dozens of schools across Austin - this includes campuses in Austin ISD and bordering independent school districts. Training is provided and the hourly wage for crossing guards is $15 an hour, 2.5 hours per weekday. A criminal background check is required for all applicants.

“I urge people to apply for the available jobs to help our children safely walk and bike to and from school," remarked Mayor Steve Adler. "There is no more important public service than ensuring the safety of our children.”

Crossing guards model safe behavior for young children, remind drivers of their responsibility to use caution, watch for pedestrians in school zones, and help parents and guardians to feel more comfortable about their children walking or biking to school. Guards are usually stationed at busy or challenging intersections. Other factors considered for crossing guard locations are traffic volume and speed, line of sight issues, location history, and ratio of adults to children crossing at an intersection.

Austin Public Works’ Safe Routes to School Program helps elementary and middle school students walk, bike, or roll to school. We make it safer for students to get to school by providing crossing guards, educational programs, outreach initiatives, and infrastructure projects to schools throughout Austin. Learn more and apply to be a crossing guard at: AustinTexas.gov/Crossing-Guards