WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — The District is facing a shortage of crossing guards — or safety technicians, as they are often known.
“We’re doing everything we can, but it’s really a struggle for us,” said District Department of Transportation Director Sharon Kershbaum, who oversees the crossing guard program.
Kershbaum said that there are currently 180 crossing guards around the city while there are 38 vacancies.
Part of the reason for the shortage? Roughly 40% of applicants fail a mandatory drug test.
“We do that primarily because they’re working with youth. If they’re impaired on the job, there could be some risk to residents,” Kershbaum said.
Mercedes Stanley mans her post near Cleveland Elementary School at the intersection of S Street NW and 8th Street NW in the Shaw Neighborhood.
Stanley, who has a young son in school, has been a safety technician since October.
“It’s an awesome job to meet new people,” Stanley said about what she enjoys most about her job.
Parents said the safety technicians provide an invaluable service.
“My babies, they’re learning how to cross the street. But these cars don’t stop at all,” Kimberly Oden said. “So with her (Stanley) being out here, they have to stop.”
Anyone interested in becoming a safety technician is encouraged to contact DDOT.
