Ben McCanna photo/Press Herald

SOUTH PORTLAND — A crossing guard for Dora L. Small Elementary School welcomes children each day with a warm friendly face.

Michele Danois has been a crossing guard for the elementary school for 10 years. No matter how cold or hot the days are, Danois always brings energy and enthusiasm to her crossing guard stop. According to a statement she made, Danois wants children to see her positivity and go to school eager and excited to learn. 

“Going to school in the morning, let’s be happy, let’s be ready for school and let’s be excited,” she said. “I am able to do more within my community.” 

Residents in the community know her stop for having a large display of pinwheels and toys and she always comes prepared with dog treats to give out to family’s furry friends. She also carries extra mittens and handwarmers for children who forgot their mittens that day.

Danois not only stops traffic for children going to school and coming home, but for local adults and neighbors as well. Making sure everyone can safely cross the road.  

If you are looking to help the community and spread some positivity while keeping children safe on their way to school, the city of South Portland is accepting applications for school crossing guards and substitute crossing guards to fill in when needed.

Those who sign up will receive $17 per scheduled one-hour crossing guard shift, in the morning from 8:05 to 9:05 a.m. and in the afternoon from 2:40 to 3:25 p.m., a total of $34 per day. Applications are available at the South Portland Police Department during business hours.