Webster Elementary was selected as one of only 10 schools in the nation to receive a $500 advancement grant for their AAA School Safety Patrol program. Webster School Counselor, Joleen Brady, applied for the grant earlier this year in order to better support their growing program as they expanded from 17 to 31 student members.

The Webster Safety Patrol Program consists of students in 3rd through 5th grades who work “shifts” before and after school. They greet students as they enter the building and wish them a good day on their way out of the building. They help ensure students get to their classroom or help them get to where they need to be. They assist with parent pick-up; during inclement weather the Safety Patrol is located inside the building where students await their rides home. In nicer weather, they help ensure safety on the sidewalks just outside of the school entrances. They are active and excited to be at their posts each day.

Recently, Webster Safety Patrol members suggested the idea of “Junior Patrol Members,” where they would mentor younger students. The program is considering adding students in 1st through 2nd grades, and potentially several Kindergarten students, to help the older students with work taking place inside of the building such as monitoring the hallways during arrival and dismissal. The grant will be used to purchase neon sashes for the Junior Members as well as additional vests and badges for Captains and Lieutenants. 

Students involved in the Safety Patrol Program are developing a greater awareness of interpersonal skills, social skills, and leadership skills. Webster emphasizes how interpersonal and social skills, such as kindness and greeting others, can go a long way in establishing and promoting a positive culture within the school. The Safety Patrol helps in creating a safe and welcoming space for all students to feel comfortable in attending each day. Finally, students are building leadership skills as students are responsible for following their schedule, reporting on time, signing in, and also informing either the Captain or Mrs. Brady if they are unable to report for their duty. The Safety Patrol has student Captains who take attendance and Lieutenants who help support the overall morale of the team. Team members submit ideas for improvement and the Captains and Mrs. Brady collaborate to create solutions which provide voice and leadership at all levels of the program.

Incredibly well-done, Webster! We are #proudofU!

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