If you drive by Brookmill Boulevard Junior Public School in Scarborough during peak hours, you will likely see Sonia Preston guiding and supporting CAA School Safety Patrollers as they diligently fulfill their duties. In recognition of her years of devoted service and exceptional commitment to the program, Preston was recently named the CAA School Safety Patrol Supervisor of the Year. With an impressive 21 years in the CAA School Safety Patrol® program, this seasoned Patrol Supervisor is the architect of the patrol program at Brookmill Boulevard Junior Public School. In this role, she oversees every aspect of the program, from scheduling shifts to procuring the necessary equipment and supplies to conducting regular training sessions and equipping Patrollers with the skills necessary to handle various traffic scenarios with poise and precision. “Sonia leads by example, demonstrating integrity, compassion and resilience in all her actions," says Helena Syptak, principal and nominator. "Under her guidance, patrol members fulfill their duties admirably and transform into confident leaders, inspired and motivated to excel both in their roles and as responsible citizens."

The CAA School Safety Patrol program is CAA’s oldest traffic safety initiative. It teaches children lifelong leadership skills, including how to interact in a busy environment and how to act confidently in emergency situations.

Going above and beyond to ensure community safety

Preston's commitment to promoting pedestrian safety extends beyond the school grounds. She actively engages with local authorities and stakeholders to address traffic concerns in the surrounding areas. "Her advocacy for improved infrastructure and implementation of strategies to mitigate potential hazards has not only elevated the safety standards in our school community but has also positively impacted our broader neighbourhood,” says Syptak. “Sonia’s volunteerism, commitment, dependability and leadership are the cornerstones of our program's success, and her tireless efforts have undoubtedly made a lasting impact on our entire community." In recognition of her dedication to the program, Preston received a personalized trophy and a free CAA Plus Membership. In addition, her school received $1,000 to use towards the CAA School Safety Patrol® program.

For over 95 years, CAA has worked to secure safer school zones across Ontario.

Founded in 1929, the CAA School Safety Patrol® program is active in about 800 Ontario schools and is a collaborative effort between police, school boards, teachers, bus consortiums and approximately 20,000 student volunteer Patrollers. The program gives Patrollers an acute awareness of road safety and gives them the tools to help them stay safe as they travel to and from school.

Visit www.caaschoolsafetypatrol.com to learn more details about the program.

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