By Shereen Siewert
WAUSAU — A Wausau elementary school crossing guard has been nominated as America’s Favorite Crossing Guard, according to the Wausau School District.
Clarence Blaskowski, a crossing guard at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School, is one of this year’s nominees for the award, sponsored by Safe Kids Worldwide and FedEx. Blaskowski has been helping students cross the street at the corner of Third Avenue and Randolph Streets for five years.
The crossing guards with the highest number of votes will move onto a final round where a panel of judges will select the top three winners, who will receive donations of $5,000; $7,500; and $10,000 for their school.
“Clarence is nothing short of a blessing for our learners and families and is a most deserving candidate for recognition,” Blaskowski’s nomination reads. “Consistent through all the elements… Rain, shine, snow, sleet, freezing cold, and all of the in-betweens of Wisconsin weather, Clarence is a warm, patient and caring presence for our families each and every day and has been for the last five years. In some instances, he is the first person kids have contact with when they leave home in the morning and for all, he is a gentle and genuine voice saying “Good Morning!” and a positive role model expressing authentic care when asking how kids or families are doing. He models safety and kindness, putting himself at risk in a busy intersection where drivers don’t always demonstrate the same care and caution. He encourages kids to do their best and to be their best each day. Clarence’s interactions with our families serve as an inspiring reminder of the power of connection and positivity through even the smallest of actions.”
Find Clarence’s entry and vote here: http://wshe.es/f8BoUozJ
Voting is open until Friday.
Photo: Wausau School District Facebook photo
