CAPE CORAL, Fla. – You know those 5th graders who wear the neon green safety belts to their Elementary Schools? They’re part of the AAA School Safety Patrol® program.
AAA created this program more than 100 years ago to help fellow students make it to class safely. Patrollers provide students with an extra sense of safety and security as they travel to and from school.
In exchange, Patrollers learn life-long lessons about leadership, responsibility, and good citizenship.
Every year, AAA recognizes one outstanding patroller from each state. From that group, one student is then selected to be the Nationally recognized AAA School Safety Patroller of the Year.
In the news: 3 Florida Lottery Scratch-Off Players From The Same County Win $1 Million Each
This year, Eliza Odom of Diplomat Elementary School in Cape Coral was named both the Florida and National “AAA School Safety Patroller of the Year” for the 2022-23 school year. She is one of thousands of Florida students who participated in the AAA School Safety Patrol program this year and it is a huge accomplishment for Eliza to win both recognitions.
In addition to her Patrol duties, Eliza Odom regularly mentors young students, raises funds for charitable causes, and participates in local volunteer activities, including helping at a local food distribution site after Hurricane Ian wreaked massive damage to her Cape Coral community.
“Participating in my AAA Safety Patrol helped me to be more responsible, to be a better rule follower, and to be a good role model,” Odom said. “Being a safety patroller helps me to be more organized and prepared for life. I think being a safety patroller has been a great opportunity, and I’ve enjoyed doing it.”
“Eliza Odom is a tremendous representative of the AAA School Safety Patrol program and very deserving of this award,” said Michele Harris, Florida Public Affairs Director, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “She exemplifies the type of leadership qualities and safety skills of a great safety patroller. We are so proud of Eliza’s contributions and are thrilled to have her represent the program by also receiving the national high honor of AAA School Safety Patroller of the Year.”
In the news: St. Petersburg Museum Of History To Host Preservation Expo On May 19
Nominees were asked to submit an essay demonstrating how they went above and beyond to keep themselves and others safe and improve peers’ well-being. Judges reviewed each applicant’s leadership qualities, safety skills, school involvement, and dedication to citizenship and volunteerism.
Android Users, Click To Download The Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Signup for our free newsletter.
We can’t do this without your help; visit our GiveSendGo page and donate any dollar amount; every penny helps.