Loudoun Crossing Guards Win Most Outstanding In VA Award

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — Crossing Guard Appreciation Day on Wednesday is an opportune time to recognize the unsung heroes who help students cross roads safely every day. Two crossing guards in Loudoun County is one of three recognized as 2023's Most Outstanding Crossing Guards in Virginia.

Courtney Markowski of Round Hill Elementary in Round Hill and Dave Becker of Emerick Elementary and Blue Ridge Middle School in Purcellville were two of the honorees by the Virginia Department of Transportation. VDOT accepts nominations each year for Virginia's Most Outstanding Crossing Guard Award.

Other honorees were Richard Thomas of John Adams Elementary School in Alexandria, John Winnett of Virginia Beach Middle School in Virginia Beach, Gloria Query of Crestwood Middle and Treakle Elementary Schools in Chesapeake and Barbara Beniamino of Butts Road Intermediate School in Chesapeake.

Markowski has been a crossing guard at Round Hill Emenetary for 11 years. The nomination for Markowski says "she's attentive, kind, and has a remarkable memory for everyone (kids, adults and siblings)." The crossing guard was supposed to retire but is staying on until a replacement crossing guard is found.

"She is always prepared for any type of weather with extra lights and gear to keep the kids safe and traffic observing the signs and cones," the nomination said. "We feel privileged to have her in this role. Her presence is a delightful part of our mornings."

Becker received nominations from the two schools he has worked at for 12 years. A nomination for Becker from Emerick Elementary said, "Crossing guard Dave is loved by the students, parents, and the local community."

"He takes great care in his duties to ensure our children's safety while also bringing joy to all of our days," the nomination said. "No matter what's going on, he always brings a smile to our faces with his kindness and fun energy."

A Blue Ridge Middle School nominator said, "he is so positive and high spirited that he makes every student and passerby have a much better start and end to the school day at Blue Ridge Middle School. Really, his presence outside the school every day makes our community better. He is a treasure."

All nominees for Most Outstanding Crossing Guard receive a letter of appreciation from VDOT, while winners get a certificate and small gift.

The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office surprised the two crossing guards Wednesday morning to honor their service.

"We are proud of all 39 members of the LCSO Crossing Guard team and appreciate the many thankful comments they regularly receive from parents and students," the sheriff's office said in a statement.