City of Mesa, AZ

08/14/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/14/2024 16:17

Local Public Figures Bring Awareness Back to School and Pedestrian Safety

Local Public Figures Bring Awareness Back to School and Pedestrian Safety

August 14, 2024 at 3:07 pm

Mesa Public Schools and City of Mesas Bicycle and Pedestrian Program are partnering to encourage safer road behavior from drivers and pedestrians now that schools are back in session. This morning, Aug. 14, local public figures stepped into the shoes of our dedicated Mesa crossing guards to help promote traffic safety in the community. This initiative aimed to raise awareness about the critical role of crossing guards in helping get students to school safely every day.

We're thrilled to have had such enthusiastic participation from our local public figures said RJ Zeder City of Mesas Director of Transportation. Their involvement helped to amplify the importance of street safety for all road users of all ages, and we are confident it has made a lasting impression on the community.
This years public figures included:

Baxter the Bobcat, Arizona Diamondbacks Mascot
John Giles, Mesa Mayor
Mark Freeman, Mesa Councilmember, District 1
Julie Spilsbury, Mesa Councilmember, District 2
Jenn Duff, Mesa Councilmember, District 4
Alicia Goforth, Mesa Councilmember, District 5
Forest Smith, Mesas Assistant Fire and Medical Chief
Dr. Andi Fourlis, Superintendent of Mesa Public Schools
Spunky and Spirit Mustang, Dobson High Schools Mascots
Tommy Toro, Mountain View High Schools Mascot
Wayne Drop, Water Use It Wisely Character

The public figures donned the iconic crossing guard vests and assisted with ensuring safe street crossings, all while engaging with the community and spreading smiles. We hope this initiative inspires everyone to be more mindful on the roads, not only now that school is back in session but throughout the whole school year.