Last week, Cicero District 99 proudly partnered with the Town of Cicero to bring together the everyday heroes who protect what matters most — our children.

Our crossing guards and parent patrol volunteers gathered in one room alongside District 99 Superintendent Dr. Aldo Calderin, School Board President Tom Tomschin, Cicero Town President Larry Dominick, Town Clerk Maria Punzo-Arias and Director of Parent Patrol Ismael Vargas — all united by one shared mission:

Keeping our kids safe before and after school. 

Every school principal was also in attendance, serving breakfast and personally thanking these incredible individuals. Not because they had to — but because gratitude matters. Because service matters. Because people matter.

Let's be clear: These men and women stand in the cold, the heat, the rain, and the snow. They arrive early. They stay late. They watch every curb, every crosswalk, every child.

They are the quiet guardians of our mornings and afternoons. They are the reason parents feel peace. They are the reason students arrive safely.

And the message from every leader in that room was simple and heartfelt: We could not do this without you.

Moments like this don't happen everywhere. Communities don't always pause to recognize those who serve behind the scenes. But here in Cicero, we do things differently. We show up. We say thank you. We stand together.

Now — we're asking YOU to be part of that village.

👉 Interested in becoming a Crossing Guard? Visit the Town of Cicero during normal business hours and apply in person at the 2nd Floor Human Resources Department.

👉 Want to join our Parent Patrol family? FILL OUT THIS QUICK FORM

Whether you have an hour a week or more time to give — your presence can change a child's day. Your commitment can strengthen an entire community.

This is what pride looks like. This is what unity looks like. This is what caring for our kids looks like.

Cicero doesn't just talk about safety — we live it. 💛