WORCESTER—Jacqueline Bellos, a crossing guard at Midland Street Elementary School, said she hadn’t even heard of the designation before, let alone that she had been nominated for it.
So Bellos colors herself “very surprised” to have been named one of the three “2024 Crossing Guard Champions” by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s Safe Routes to School Program, MassDOT recently announced.
More than 500 nominations were submitted for the categories of Crossing Guard of the Year, Honorable Mention, and Crossing Guard Champions. The winners will be honored in a ceremony on June 6.
“Jackie Bellos is the heartbeat of safety at Midland Street School, where she has served as a crossing guard for an impressive three decades,” the Midland Street School wrote in its nomination. “Her commitment to the well-being of children goes beyond just guiding them safely across the street. She knows each child by name, offering encouragement and fostering a sense of trust and security.”
Bellos has prevented countless accidents, earning her admiration and gratitude from parents and staff. As the announcement states, she’s “not just a crossing guard; she’s an essential part of the Midland family and her impact will be felt for years to come.”
For Bellos, she said it’s about being prepared and keeping a watchful eye, she told the Worcester Guardian.
“Be aware of what’s coming and be ready when it gets closer,” she said. “I’ve stopped accidents by paying attention to what’s going on around me. Being prepared and staying alert is super important. Whether it’s making my presence known, ensuring there’s enough space between cars and people crossing, or seeing potential dangers ahead, being on the ball is key.”
The Massachusetts Safe Routes to School Program, sponsored by MassDOT and funded by the Federal Highway Administration, promotes safer routes for students to walk and bike to school. By partnering with community organizations, local law enforcement, education leaders, and public health departments, the program supports over 1,160 schools in more than 280 communities across the Commonwealth. These partnerships emphasize pedestrian and bicycle safety and provide information, materials, and resources to support local Safe Routes to School initiatives.
“I love the kids,” Bellos said when asked what makes her particularly adept at the job. “All of my kids went through Midland Street. It is a lovely happy little school. The kids are great. I have watched them grow up and now even get to see some of their children attending Midland. I love it. It brings me joy!”
Her biggest safety tip for school kids? Wait for the crossing guard’s signal before crossing the street.
“Do not run across the street,” she stressed. “Hold your children’s hand at all times. You never know what is coming by, please always be safe and cross within the crosswalk. They’re there to keep everyone safe, so let’s use them right.”
Charlene Arsenault can be reached at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
