Crossing Guard Celebrates 80th Birthday Surrounded By Kids She Loves

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — For 40 years, the lovable Ann Neat has helped children safely traverse intersections as they head to and from school. Wednesday, Neat celebrated her 80th birthday and the community made sure she knew how much they appreciated her.

She was showered with an abundance of cards and class notes, and was presented with flowers after school dismissal.

Lisa Jones, gifted and talented resource teacher at Phelps Luck Elementary, described Neat as "a gem." Neat first worked for the Howard County Public School System 43 years ago in food services at Guilford Elementary, then she subbed at Phelps Luck Elementary School before becoming a crossing guard.

"(I love) seeing the children grow as they go through elementary school," Neat said. "(I also like) seeing the seasons change."

In preparation for her outdoor job, Neat checks the weather the night before and morning of school so she's prepared for the ever-changing forecast. She also wears lots of layers in the freezing cold wintertime.

"Ms. Neat was my crossing guard from 1990-1995 and I loved seeing her smiling face every morning and afternoon," said Erin Swann, art instructor at Phelps Luck Elementary School. "She was a wonderful neighbor to us and I always remember her as the nicest crossing guard I ever had."

When Neat isn't joyfully escorting kiddos across intersections, she enjoys reading, spending time with her grandchildren, taking vacations and traveling. She recently went to the Outer Banks in North Carolina, Germany, Austria and Switzerland.