Plymouth-Canton Crossing Guard Keeps Kids, Community Safe

Every weekday morning, Steve Olson puts on a lime green vest and sits at his crosswalk on South Lilley Road, between Cherry Hill and Palmer. 

He smiles and waves to every passer-by, whether they be walkers, joggers or passing cars. And when the time comes, he helps Field Elementary students safely cross the street to the foot path. 

"I love my crossing," Olson said. "Each of our crossings, as you get the chance to visit them, has its own corner culture. Virtually, all are caring, sharing, safe zones for the kids and we all keep in mind that these children are our first priority and the number one reason we're here."

Of his kind words, smiles and waves, Olson said they help cheer up people having bad days.

"Service performed without that smile is like boney fish, tough to accept or eat," Olson said. "The smile is the glue of friendship, truly making it a team effort for everyone involved.... Everyone who comes to this crossing is a part of my extended family and I thoroughly enjoy my role as a grandfather to them all."

Olson, currently working his second year as a crossing guard, was honored for his efforts last week by the Board of Education.

Board Secretary Adrienne Davis called Olson "one of the unsung heroes we don't really get to honor the way we should."

"I'm one of the newest, least experienced, and therefore, the least deserving of this attention," he said. "I want this interview to recognize and draw attention to all those who work so hard at this and have done so for many years."

Olson said he decided to become a crossing guard to follow the example set by Gayle Parkinson, a Plymouth-Canton crossing guard at Hulsing Elementary, whom Olson and his family met after moving to Canton in 1994. 

"Her kind and caring attitude endeared her to all of us, my wife, Janet, myself and our children, Elizabeth, Catherine and David," he said. "Even on bad days, her friendly smile and dependable greeting was like medicine to our souls." 

Plymouth-Canton School officials said the district is in desperate need of crossing guards for Hoben, Bentley and Workman Elementary schools and substitutes distrcit wide. 

Parents, grandparents, college students (anyone 18 or older) can apply online via the Employment section of the district web site. Questions about the position can be emailed to Dave Rocker at david.rocker@pccsmail.net or call him at 734-564-4681.