City of TORONTO – Etobicoke West Zone
Crossing Guard Services/Employment
Frequently asked questions
hidden row
Is there a Crossing Guard in my neighbourhood?
School Crossing Guards are stationed at designated school crossings throughout the community during morning and afternoon school bell times. Some Toronto locations also have Guards assigned during the lunch hour.
For locations and operating times, please see the interactive Crossing Guard map.
I think there is an intersection that should have a Crossing Guard – What do I do?
The City determines which intersections warrant a School Crossing Guard. The OSC is responsible for recruiting, training, equipping and managing the Crossing Guards assigned to those locations. Suggested locations are evaluated using pedestrian counts, vehicle speeds, driver compliance, traffic hazards and site observations to determine whether a Crossing Guard is warranted.
If you believe an intersection should have a Crossing Guard, please contact your municipality.
City of Ottawa: Requests can be submitted through 311.
City of Brockville: Requests can be submitted at https://brockville.com/city services/roads-sidewalks-traffic/; Or call 613-342-8772
City of Toronto: Requests can be submitted through 311.
How do I thank my Crossing Guard?
Our Crossing Guards work in all types of weather and often in challenging traffic conditions to help children and families cross safely every school day. A kind word or message of appreciation goes a long way.
If you would like to recognize a Crossing Guard, please email:
comments@ottawasafetycouncil.ca
We will gladly share your message with them.
You may also nominate a Crossing Guard for one of our annual recognition awards through this link: https://www.ottawasafetycouncil.ca/thankyou/
What are motorists required to do when they encounter a Crossing Guard?
Under Ontario's Highway Traffic Act, motorists must obey a School Crossing Guard displaying an official stop sign.
Drivers must remain stopped until:
- All pedestrians have completely crossed the roadway, and
- The Crossing Guard has safely returned to the curb.
Failing to stop for a Crossing Guard may result in fines of up to $2,000 and three demerit points.
What does a School Crossing Guard do?
School Crossing Guards help children, families and other pedestrians cross the street safely at designated school crossings during school bell times.
Using an official stop sign, Crossing Guards safely stop traffic, assist pedestrians from curb to curb, observe traffic conditions and help create safer school communities.
Why become a School Crossing Guard?
Being a School Crossing Guard is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in your community.
Benefits include:
- Helping keep children and families safe
- Flexible weekday schedule
- Paid training
- All required safety equipment provided
- Ongoing support from supervisors and office staff
- Recognition and appreciation programs
Working outdoors while serving your community
Who can apply?
We welcome applicants from all walks of life, including retirees, parents, students (where eligible), and anyone seeking flexible part-time employment.
Successful applicants are dependable, enjoy working outdoors, communicate well with the public and are committed to helping keep children safe.
No previous experience is required.
How do I apply?
Applications are accepted throughout the year for upcoming school vacancies.
Applicants can apply online through Crossing-Guard.ca.
Applicants should select the City they reside in when beginning their application.
What types of Crossing Guard positions are available?
Depending on operational needs, the OSC offers several types of positions.
Regular/Permanent Crossing Guard
Assigned to a specific crossing location and works the scheduled school-day shifts throughout the school year.
Relief Crossing Guard
Provides coverage for absences, vacations and vacant crossings. Relief Guards may work at several nearby locations and often have more flexible schedules.
Standby / On-Call Crossing Guard
Available to accept last-minute assignments during school bell times. Standby positions may include a standby payment depending on the municipality.
Position titles and scheduling may vary slightly between city.
Can I work only a few days each week?
Yes.
While Regular/Permanent Crossing Guards are expected to work their assigned school-day schedule, Relief and Standby positions offer greater flexibility.
Where will I work?
Whenever possible, we assign Crossing Guards to locations close to their home.
Relief Guards should expect to travel between several nearby intersections as operational needs require.
What are the working hours?
Crossing Guards work only on school days, during the school year.
Typical shifts occur:
- Morning arrival
- Lunch (where applicable)
- Afternoon dismissal
Individual shifts generally range from approximately 40 minutes to two hours, depending on the location.
Most Crossing Guards work between approximately two and five hours each day.
There are no evening, overnight or weekend shifts.
How much do Crossing Guards get paid?
Current wage information is available on Crossing-Guard.ca.
Pay rates are reviewed periodically and may differ between municipalities.
Will I receive training?
Yes.
All new Crossing Guards complete comprehensive paid training before beginning work.
Returning Guards also complete mandatory annual refresher training prior to the start of each school year.
Will I be paid for training?
Yes.
All required training and mandatory meetings are paid.
What does the training include?
Training includes:
- Safe crossing procedures
- Proper positioning and crossing techniques
- Health and Safety
- Workplace Violence and Harassment
- Accessibility
- Legislated workplace training
- Program policies and procedures
New Crossing Guards also complete practical onsite training alongside experienced Guards before working independently.
What equipment is provided?
The OSC provides all required safety equipment, including:
- High-visibility reflective safety vest
- Official stop sign
- Ice cleats
- Employee identification badge
- Electronic whistle (where applicable)
Do I need a Vulnerable Sector Police Record Check?
Yes.
All successful applicants must complete a satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Police Record Check before beginning employment.
All successful applicants are required to complete a new check for the OSC specifically, even if they already possess one.
Do I have to pay for my Police Record Check?
No.
The OSC reimburses the cost of the required Vulnerable Sector Police Record Check.
Applicants should follow the instructions provided during the hiring process and should not attend a police station unless instructed to do so.
How does the OSC help keep Crossing Guards safe?
The safety of our Crossing Guards is our highest priority.
We support our Guards through:
- Comprehensive paid training
- Ongoing Health and Safety education
- Regular site visits and inspections
- Support from experienced Team Leads and Supervisors
- An active Joint Health & Safety Committee
- Prompt follow-up on reported incidents and hazards
- Community education campaigns promoting safer school zones
- Collaboration with municipalities, police and road safety partners to continually improve safety around schools
Can I take an extended vacation during the school year?
The School Crossing Guard program operates from September through June, and we look for applicants who can commit to working regularly throughout the school year.
If you anticipate an extended absence, please discuss it with us during the hiring process so we can determine whether a position is suitable for your availability.
Who do I contact if I have additional questions?
If you have questions about becoming a School Crossing Guard or about our program, please contact the Ottawa Safety Council – info@ottawasafetycouncil.ca
We would be happy to help you learn more about joining our team or about the School Crossing Guard Program in your community.