School crossing guards are an essential part of our school community. They play an important role keeping our children safe as they travel to and from school. Their job may seem simple, but it requires a great deal of patience, attentiveness, and dedication. They work in all kinds of weather conditions, temporarily stopping traffic, and guiding children across the street.

The City of Cambridge currently has 50 active locations supervised by Adult School Crossing Guards.

Tips & Procedure

When drivers see a crossing guard with a sign lifted

  • Slow down and come to a complete stop
  • Wait patiently until all pedestrians and the crossing guard are completely off the road before proceeding

Below are a few more simple actions to keep our community safe, especially in school areas and zones:

  • Be alert and aware of children crossing the street, even if the crossing guard is not present.
  • Be particularly cautious when driving near school buses, as children may be getting on or off the bus.
  • Look for pedestrians, especially when turning left or right. Check the entire crosswalk for pedestrians
  • Always make eye contact and confirm with pedestrians that they know you’re yielding the right of way or turning
  • Do not use handheld electronic devices (texting or talking) or other distractions such as eating and drinking when driving
  • Be extra aware and follow slower speed limits in school zones and in neighborhoods where children are present and sometimes unpredictable
  • Be patient and allow extra time when traveling through school zones during peak hours.
  • Adjust your driving according to weather and traffic conditions

We're hiring!

We're currently hiring crossing guards for the school year! You can work at one of our various locations around the City. Our crossing guards work two to three hours a day. If you enjoy working outside and with the public, apply today!

Crossing Guard Appreciation Week

June 5th to June 9th, 2023 is Crossing Guard Appreciation Week. Download a Thank You card for your local Crossing Guard here!

Crossing Guard Appreciation Week

The interactive map below will help parents and caregivers in designing safe walking habits for their children. Click on any of the “yellow icons” on the map, which will give you the schools in the area, along with the times that a crossing guard is on duty for that specific location.

View map in full screen.