Safe Kids Fairfax County has a Nominee for America’s Favorite Crossing Guard! Haycock Elementary nominated Beeda Lee-Pawlak to represent the coalition in nationwide competition; she is one of over 100 crossing guards nominated nationwide. 

Crossing guards are very important for keeping kids safe on the way to school, so we want to show our appreciation. They protect our kids on their way to and from school. They encourage safe behaviors. Most importantly, they show up rain or shine.

Beeda Lee-Pawlak is in her second year as the crossing guard at Haycock Elementary School. The community has "never been more impressed with a crossing guard." Beeda expertly manages the busy intersection of Westmoreland Street and Haycock Road. Her friendly and firm demeanor effectively conveys to cars and buses how to operate, with minimal backup. Bus drivers understand exactly when to stop and turn without hesitation or confusion. Beeda's hard work, diligence, kindness, and control allow students to arrive at school smiling and ready to learn. Parents emphasize that despite the busy traffic their children must cross, they feel confident knowing that Beeda is there to assist them.

We're currently in phase two of the campaign: voting. Voting runs from November 19 through November 30. When the voting period is over, the top 5 nominees will go through a background check and complete some forms, and if they pass, their profile will be sent to a panel of judges, who will choose one winner. The winning crossing guard will receive prizes based off their needs (example: winter coat, new stop sign, etc) not to exceed $500, and the school they represent will win a $10,000 prize. Safe Kids will host a pep rally at the school to honor the winner and will do promotions announcing America’s Favorite Crossing Guard. The second place winner’s school will receive $7,500 and the third place winner’s school will receive $5,000. 

Everyone can vote daily through the voting window. To do so, go to the Safe Kids Website: America's Favorite Crossing Guard.