NORFOLK, VA – Wilma Modlin, a crossing guard for Oceanair Elementary School for 10 years, has been recognized as one of Virginia’s most outstanding crossing guards by the Virginia Department of Transportation. Ms. Modlin was among 70 nominees and was only one of six recognized for the honor.
According to her nomination, “Ms. Wilma” as she is known to students and families, goes above and beyond what is expected of her and is a role model in every sense. She knows the walkers by name and commends students on their safe and positive behaviors. With her signature smile, Ms. Modlin helps in any way she can with the bus and traffic congestion, daycare vans, and slipping and sliding students. She even knows which students are walking in a direction other than towards their homes.
“We are thrilled that she is recognized for the excellent work she does every day,” says Oceanair Elementary School Principal Lenthia Willie-Clark. “She is a constant positive presence and our community, staff and children all love her. She is so deserving of this recognition.”
“I congratulate Ms. Modlin for receiving this honor,” said Chief Larry D. Boone of the Norfolk Police Department. “Her dedication to the safety of our next generation of leaders is not only seen but felt by the students and staff at Oceanair Elementary School.”
Ms. Modlin is being honored as part of the annual statewide Crossing Guard Appreciation Day event on Feb. 12 that was created to say “thank you” to those positive role models who help students cross the street safely on their way to and from school.
For more information, please visit the Virginia Department of Education’s Safe Routes to School program at www.virginiadot.org.