While teachers, principals, and bus drivers are easily recognized for their importance, one role that is easily overlooked is the school crossing guard, a role on which Jennifer Huotari, the crossing guard for Ella White Elementary School, can provide some insight.

Huotari said her interest in the position of crossing guard started when her own children were still attending Ella White. Upon noticing one day that the crossing guard was replaced by a police officer and inquiring about the reason, Huotari found out that there was a vacancy for the position and decided to apply.

“My daughter used to attend this school,” Huotari said. “One morning, I walked her to school, I noticed the crossing guard was a police officer. I asked what happened to the crossing guard and he said that, due to family reasons, she can’t work anymore. He then said, if you know anybody that wants to do a job like this, to have them call or look it up online. I was actually wanting to change jobs. So I decided to do it.”

For Huotari, an average day sees her waking up at 6 in the morning so she can be at the school at 7:55 a.m. Once classes start, Huotari will either go to her other job at Big Boy or go home and do some work around her house. She returns to the school around 3:25 p.m. for the end of the school day.

News Photo By Temi Fadayomi Jennifer Huotari, the crossing guard for Ella White Elementary School, helps students make their way across Ripley Boulevard after school on Feb. 9.

For Huotari, the most rewarding aspect of her job is the positive affirmation she gets from children and parents alike.

“I like the positivity that I get from the children and passerbys,” said Huotari. “The rewarding part is these little kids and watching them grow up. This time is precious.”

News Photo By Temi Fadayomi Jennifer Huotari, the crossing guard for Ella White Elementary School, helps students make their way across 3rd Avenue after school on Feb. 9.

News Photo By Temi Fadayomi Jennifer Huotari, the crossing guard for Ella White Elementary School, helps students make their way across 3rd Avenue after school on Feb. 9.

News Photo By Temi Fadayomi Jennifer Huotari, the crossing guard for Ella White Elementary School, helps a student and parent make their way across 3rd Avenue after school on Feb. 9.