Carol Brendal was a student patrol in sixth grade. All grown up, Brendal still helps kids cross the street. She’s been a crossing guard for seven years, guiding students through the intersection of 101 and 89th on their way to and from Rush Creek Elementary School.
Brendal is on the job rain or shine and has discovered some vehicles don’t like to stop unless she stands well into the crosswalk to block traffic. She also finds a high percentage of drivers on their cell phones. Brendal is passionate about the safety of students and would prefer impatient drivers choose a different route during those 20 minutes before and after school.
A highlight of Brendal’s job is working with her amazing crew of fifth- and sixth-grade patrols. “The kids are dependable and make my job easy,” says Brendal, who recently found her old sixth-grade patrol certificate. “This work is still as rewarding as it was then,” she says. “Now if only standing outdoors when it’s 30 below were as enjoyable.”
