Every day, crossing guards across the country stand at intersections, rain or shine, keeping children safe as they walk to and from school.
One of those heroes was Steven Winn, a devoted father and crossing guard from Layton, whose life was tragically cut short almost a year ago while doing the job he loved. Today, his family is turning their grief into action, hoping to bring more attention to the risks crossing guards face—and the respect they deserve.
Remembering Steven Winn’s Dedication
Steven Winn wasn’t just any crossing guard. For his family and community, he was a father figure, a neighbor, and a protector. After retiring, it felt natural for him to take up the job. “It combined that very fatherly persona that he has with giving back to the people in his own neighborhood,” said his daughter, Jennifer Snowden.
On January 28, while helping children cross safely at a Layton intersection, Winn was hit and killed. It was a heartbreaking moment for his family, especially since there was no chance to say goodbye. “He said, ‘Love you, kiddo.’ That was the last thing he said to me,” Snowden recalled.
Crossing Guards: Silent Protectors in School Zones
Crossing guards may not wear uniforms or carry badges, but they play a crucial role in protecting lives. With just a reflective vest and a stop sign, they manage busy streets, guide children safely, and often deal with impatient drivers.
Despite their importance, crossing guards are often overlooked. Jennifer Snowden pointed this out, asking, “How is it that we can have a National Hat Day and a National Donut Day, but we can’t have a consensus on when National Crossing Guard Day is?”
A Movement to Honour Unsung Heroes
What began as a simple social media post asking people to thank their local crossing guards has now turned into a growing petition. The goal? To officially recognize a National Crossing Guard Day—a dedicated moment each year to appreciate these everyday heroes.
Traci Peterson, another crossing guard from Davis County, was moved by Steven’s story. “That just hit me really hard, and last year seemed like a really tough year with a lot of school zone incidents,” she said.
Why This Matters for Every Community
Jennifer Snowden’s campaign is not just about her father. It’s about all crossing guards who put their safety at risk every day to protect children.
“All they have is a stop sign and a reflective vest,” she said. “The fact that they are risking their personal safety every day to protect our kids—why can’t we have a day to thank them?”
With support growing through signatures and public awareness, there is hope that one day soon, crossing guards will get the national recognition they deserve.
