Penfield welcomes new school crossing guards as students return for the 2026-27 school year

Penfield, New York – As students return to classrooms for the 2026-27 school year, the Town of Penfield is taking additional steps to improve safety around local schools. New crossing guards have been added at several locations after residents raised concerns about students crossing busy roads.

Town officials said they had heard from many community members who wanted more crossing guards near schools. The new positions are intended to provide extra assistance for students and families during the busiest parts of the school day.

Crossing guards will be working at four locations throughout the Town of Penfield. Their coverage will be provided both in the morning and afternoon, when students are arriving at school and leaving for the day.

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One of the locations is Penfield High School, where the presence of a crossing guard is expected to give students additional support when navigating traffic near the school.

Another crossing guard location is the intersection of Gebhardt Road and Five Mile Line Road. The site serves students attending Cobbles, Finney and St. Joseph School.

Guards will also be stationed along Scribner Road near Bay Trail and Scribner, as well as on Plank Road at Plank Road North and Plank Road South. These locations were selected as part of the town’s effort to address concerns about student safety and pedestrian traffic.

Town officials are also asking residents to continue sharing their concerns and suggestions. “If you know of other locations you feel we should consider, we welcome your suggestions.”

The addition of crossing guards, however, is only one part of the effort to keep students safe. Drivers have an important role to play, particularly in and around school zones, where children may be walking, biking or crossing roads at busy times.

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Officials are reminding motorists to slow down, pay attention and follow traffic laws. Extra caution is especially important during the morning and afternoon school rush.

“While the addition of crossing guards is a big help, the importance of slowing down, driving carefully, and obeying all traffic laws continues to be paramount, especially in school zones. Drive with care, do not speed, and never pass a school bus with its stop arm extended.”

The warning comes as traffic patterns around Penfield schools become busier with the start of another school year. A few extra seconds of patience from drivers can make a significant difference for students trying to get safely across the road.

The town is encouraging residents, parents and drivers to work together as the school year gets underway. With crossing guards at key locations and motorists remaining alert, Penfield officials hope to create safer conditions for students throughout the community.

“Let’s all do our part as we work together to create a safer Penfield, especially as the new school year begins.”