Canada’s Favourite Crossing Guard

The 2024 Canada’s Favourite Crossing Guard Contest drew 346 nominations for 59 crossing guards across four provinces.

Our 2024 winners

Jean Marc Auclair, École l’Arbrisseau, Québec City, Québec 

Known as “Mr. Happiness,” “Mr. Sunshine,” and “Mr. Smile,” Jean Marc is a beacon of positivity in his Cap-Rouge neighbourhood. At 71, he became a crossing guard out of a passion for ensuring children’s safety and has transformed his post into a source of joy. Jean Marc greets everyone with a warm smile, occasionally dresses in colourful costumes and takes pride in being a reassuring presence. One student shared, “Sometimes I don’t feel like going to school because of conflicts, but just seeing him smile at me makes my day better.” Recognized locally and beyond, Jean Marc’s kindness and commitment embody the spirit of this award. 

Fay Eggleston, Port Elgin Saugeen Central School, Port Elgin, Ontario 

Fay’s warm smile and unwavering dedication make her a pillar of her community. A former local business owner, she’s been a crossing guard for years, guiding children safely across a busy highway intersection. One nomination shared how Fay went above and beyond by noticing a child without gloves on a cold day and giving them a pair from her personal stash. Fay is loved by both children and parents for her cheerful greetings, her care for their safety and her constant vigilance, regardless of the weather.  

Clayton Ross, St. Paul Catholic School, Kingston, Ontario

Clayton is cherished by his community for his extraordinary efforts to ensure student safety and spread positivity. Parents praise him for learning the names of students and their families, bringing treats for neighbourhood dogs and volunteering to teach road safety in classrooms. Clayton even handed out reflective stickers at the end of the school year, urging children to stay safe over the summer. A parent remarked, “Clayton’s presence is not just about safety; it’s about making every student and family feel seen and valued.”

Our 2024 judges

• Trisha Enriquez, digital content creator and brand collaborations strategist
• Pamela Fuselli, President and CEO, Parachute
• Stéphanie Fournier, Vice-President Omnichannel Member/Client Journeys Division, Desjardins General Insurance Group
• Julie Houle, TVA Host
• Dr. Richard Louis, Injury Prevention Specialist, NB Trauma Program, member of Parachute’s Expert Advisory Committee

History of Canada’s Favourite Crossing Guard Contest

Parachute, Canada’s national charity dedicated to injury prevention, launched Canada’s Favourite Crossing Guard Contest in 2005 to acknowledge the tremendous efforts of dynamic crossing guards who help keep our children safe.

To date, Canada’s Favourite Crossing Guard Contest has honoured 57 crossing guards nationwide.