The AAA School Safety Patrol is a leadership program that focuses on improving safety in school communities. The program currently has more than 650,000 patrollers participating across the country. It aims to help schools increase their safety network while students gain safety awareness and leadership skills.
Longview Elementary in Phoenix’s Osborn School District is the first Valley school to implement the program in Arizona. At an awards assembly Thursday, Longview teacher and Patrol Advisor Jane DeBatty received the AAA Patrol Advisor of the Year Award for her work on the program. DeBatty was also surprised with a special appreciation award from the AAA National office for helping students stay safe inside and outside of the classroom. For supporting DeBatty’s efforts, Longview Elementary received a $2,000 grant to invest in the program.
"I am so proud of Longview Elementary safety patrol students. It is my pleasure and honor to be a part of a program that inspires young kids to be leaders and responsible community members,” DeBatty said. “I look forward to providing safety in our school for the coming years. I am grateful for the opportunity that was given to me and will not take it lightly.”
Principal Benjamin Smith nominated DeBatty for strongly believing in the AAA School Safety Patrol program and in developing student leaders. Principal Smith said DeBatty has witnessed kids believe in themselves after participating in the program and has campaigned to spread the program's impact to other schools in the district.
For more information, visit www.aaa.com/schoolsafety.
