Dear Parents and Students,

As your local crossing guard, I’m reaching out to ask for your support in ensuring that we can continue to protect the safety of students in our community. Since transitioning from Carraway Safety to Synergy, the Toronto School Crossing Guard Program has faced changes that undermine our ability to do our job effectively. I have taken steps to address these issues, including contacting CUPE, which informed me that no action would be taken until the city’s response is determined. I have also contacted city officials including the mayor, but have not received a reply.

Your support is crucial in urging the city to address these issues. Together, we can ensure a safe and secure environment for all students and promote fair treatment for crossing guards.

Our petition calls on the city to provide:

·         Fair Wages and Working Hours: Crossing guards have seen a reduction in paid hours, impacting our livelihoods and the preparation time needed to keep intersections safe. We are requesting the restoration of our previous paid hours and wages that reflect the importance of our role in safeguarding Toronto’s children. Guards currently earn only minimum wage, despite being exposed to daily risks from traffic and inclement weather, and the responsibility of protecting pedestrians.

·         Adequate Health Benefits: Our health benefits were reduced drastically, from $850 per school year to only $42 per month, or $504 for the school year. Adequate benefits are essential, given our job's physical demands and risks. We’re asking Synergy to restore meaningful health benefits to support the well-being of all crossing guards.

·         Improved Shift Planning and Communication: Recent changes to shift timings have led to issues with guards arriving either too early or too late, impacting our ability to cover busy intersections during peak times. Additionally, inconsistent communication from management has disrupted the program. We need clear, timely communication and effective scheduling to ensure we’re in the right place at the right time to protect students.

Your signature on this petition will show that our community values student safety and fair treatment for those responsible for it. By supporting us, you’re helping to strengthen a vital program for the well-being and security of Toronto’s children.

Thank you for standing with us to keep our community safe!