News Summary
The Memphis Police Department is recruiting crossing guards ahead of the school year to enhance road safety for children. Currently employing 150 guards, the department aims to add at least 90 more, offering pay between $12-$15 per hour for two hours of work daily. Interested applicants can contact MPD or visit their website for more details. This initiative coincides with a significant shortage of teachers in the Memphis-Shelby County Schools district, underlining the importance of community involvement in ensuring student safety.
Memphis – The Memphis Police Department (MPD) is actively seeking to hire crossing guards in preparation for the upcoming school year, as announced on Tuesday afternoon. The recruitment initiative aims to safeguard the roads for children during peak school hours, ensuring their safe passage before and after school.
Currently, the MPD employs approximately 150 crossing guards but is looking to add at least 90 more to its ranks. Each guard will be expected to work two hours daily when school is in session, dedicating one hour in the morning and another in the afternoon. The pay rate for these positions ranges from $12 to $15 per hour, making it an appealing opportunity for community members interested in contributing to local safety.
Interested applicants have the option to apply by either contacting the Memphis Police Department directly at 901-636-6509 or visiting the City of Memphis website for more information. The recruitment drive comes at a crucial time as Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) has reported a concerning shortage of teachers, with over 300 vacancies currently in the district.
Community Role and Importance
Crossing guards are considered essential members of the community, providing a crucial service as ‘eyes in the community’ according to the MPD. Their role not only includes helping children safely cross streets but also involves being vigilant about pedestrian safety in their designated areas. These guardians are expected to work outdoors in various weather conditions, displaying resilience and dedication to public service.
MSCS Teacher Vacancies and Recruitment Strategies
The recruitment of crossing guards occurs in parallel to ongoing efforts by MSCS to address its teacher shortage through innovative strategies. Some initiatives include offering signing bonuses for specific teaching positions and hosting hiring fairs to attract potential candidates. These efforts reflect the district’s commitment to improving educational quality and ensuring that students receive the necessary support and resources for their learning.
Community Involvement Encouraged
In its quest for crossing guard recruits, the MPD emphasizes the importance of community involvement. By enlisting locals to take on this vital role, the department aims to build trust and foster a safer environment for children traveling to and from school. Such community engagement is critical not only for enhancing safety but also for reinforcing the bonds between residents and law enforcement.
Conclusion
As the new school year approaches, the Memphis Police Department’s initiative to hire crossing guards underscores the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of the city’s youngest residents. By filling these crucial positions, the MPD aims to create a secure atmosphere for children, encourage pedestrian safety, and address the broader issue of staffing shortages within the educational system in Memphis.
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Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
