The Crossing Guard Chronicles: New School Year and The ‘Curbside Classroom’

Steve the Crossing Guard is back to his ‘Curbside Classroom’ for another school year. What he brings to children is nothing short of amazing. Yes, Steve, as you said so well, “Directions are important. We need to know where we’re going in life.” Thank you for pointing children in the right direction. Read on!

S'amusing

I stood resolute at my post, the early morning calm about to be broken by the approaching din of young voices and squeaky bicycles, a familiar and welcoming sound. It’s the first day of the new school year in Brighton, New York.

I stood prepared, blue book in hand, to take names and review notes, notes to refresh my memory of ‘old faces’ and add new names for new faces. As a school crossing guard, these are ‘my kids’ for the next ten months, learning their names is important.

And the ‘Curbside Classroom’ is reopened for business.

“Pick a card! Point it in the direction according to its label: North, South, East or West!”

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That was the first day of school, a month ago, and I’m getting better with names, and the kids know we cross in an easterly direction.

It’s my job to see the kids make it…

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About Jennie

I have been teaching preschool for over thirty-five years. This is my passion. I believe that children have a voice, and that is the catalyst to enhance or even change the learning experience. Emergent curriculum opens young minds. It's the little things that happen in the classroom that are most important and exciting. That's what I write about. I was a live guest on the Kelly Clarkson Show. I am highlighted in the seventh edition of Jim Trelease's million-copy bestselling book, "The Read-Aloud Handbook" because of my reading to children. My class has designed quilts that hang as permanent displays at the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia, the Fisher House at the Boston VA Hospital, and the Massachusetts State House in Boston.
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68 Responses to The Crossing Guard Chronicles: New School Year and The ‘Curbside Classroom’

  1. Opher says:

    What an amazing guy! The kids must love him.

  2. I am following Steve now. Don’t want to miss a post.

  3. frenchc1955 says:

    Glad to see Steve back!

  4. beetleypete says:

    More great stuff from Steve. A new year of road-crossing education awaits!
    Best wishes, Pete.

  5. Since wasn’t able to post a comment on Steve’s blog, I’m leaving it for him here. A beautiful story, Jen. FOR STEVE: Oh so wonderful, Steve… You’ve set the standards for us all and how fortunate your dear students are to have you at their crossing! ❤ Bette (retired teacher) P.S. Hugs and blessing to all those who touch the lives of of children in special ways!

  6. Thank you for sharing, Jennie! Its very interesting, and such a great lesson too. Hope you had a beautiful weekend, and a nice start into the new week. Best wishes, Michael

  7. He sounds geared up and ready to meet this year’s classes! Thanks for sharing Jennie. I enjoy his tales from school. 😉

  8. Hurray for the return of the Curbside Classroom!!

  9. I love reading Steve’s posts, Jennie. Thanks for sharing.

  10. Norah says:

    I always love reading Steve’s wisdom.

  11. srbottch says:

    Jennie, every time I read your comments, I need a bigger hat size. But you have a big heart. Much appreciated!

  12. L. Marie says:

    I wish I’d had a crossing guard like this when I was a kid. How blessed those children are to be on his route.

  13. Great story about Steve. What a wonderful person. Thanks for sharing the post, Jennie.

  14. dgkaye says:

    Fantastic that Steve the Crossing Guard is blogging too. 🙂

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