A grade 6 student from Kanata was recently honoured for his outstanding contributions to the CAA School Safety Patrol® program. Thomas Roy from École Élémentaire Catholique Elisabeth-Bruyère was named the 2023/24 CAA School Safety Patroller of the Year. Known for consistently going the extra mile for his classmates, he changed his bus route to assist new French-speaking students, serving as a translator between them and the bus operator.

"Thomas exhibits a maturity beyond his years, displaying kindness, attentiveness and a commanding yet welcoming authority over the children,” says Corinne Van Der Velden, bus driver at Premier Bus Lines. “Most importantly, he exhibits and commands a pleasant authority with the children and is aware of all the bus safety protocols. The children like and respect Thomas and listen to him in return.”

As an active ambassador for the CAA School Safety Patrol, Thomas visited some of the new parents at the school and dressed up as school mascot Francosaurus to entertain the children and promote safety awareness.

Beyond his role as a CAA School Safety Patroller, Thomas is known for his positive attitude and eagerness to participate in school programs. Whether participating in sports, distributing pizza or serving on the school welcoming committee, Thomas always strives to make a difference in his school and contribute to its vibrant community.

"Thomas is a model student whose school pride radiates through his daily actions,” says Sonya Pelletier, vice-principal and nominator. “He honours his commitments, doesn't let challenges discourage him and persistently seeks solutions while always maintaining a positive outlook.”

In recognition of his outstanding efforts, Thomas was presented with a $500 cheque and a personalized trophy. Additionally, his school was awarded a plaque to commemorate his achievement.

The CAA School Safety Patrol program is CAA’s oldest traffic safety initiative.

The CAA School Safety Patrol program has kept students safe in school zones since 1929 by assisting at school crossings and on school buses. The program gives Patrollers an acute awareness of road safety, by teaching lifelong leadership skills and helping them stay safe as they travel to and from school.

According to provincial data, approximately 1.4 million students in Ontario are commuting to and from school every day, making the CAA School Safety Patrol program more relevant than ever. Visit www.caaschoolsafetypatrol.com to learn more details about the program.

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