YORKTON – Student safety patrollers from Yorkton's elementary schools were recognized Oct. 16 during the city's annual CAA School Safety Patrol Installation Ceremony at City Hall.
The City of Yorkton is holding a series of installation ceremonies this fall to recognize student safety patrollers from the city's public and Catholic elementary schools.
Hosted by the City of Yorkton, the ceremony included the recitation of the CAA Safety Patroller Pledge, in which students committed to carrying out their duties responsibly and serving as positive role models within their school communities.
Nicole Baptist, the city's bylaw and safety supervisor, told students their work contributes to the safety of their schools in much the same way police, firefighters, emergency responders and other protective service agencies help keep the broader community safe.
"That's really important work that you guys are doing," she said. "Don't forget that."
Baptist also shared a message from CAA Saskatchewan noting Yorkton schools have one of the province's highest participation rates in the School Safety Patrol program, which has operated in Saskatchewan for 75 years.
Mayor Aaron Kienle thanked the students for volunteering their time and returning to patrol duties year after year.
"I think a lot of what you do is not only keeping your fellow students and siblings safe, but it's also keeping your neighbourhood that your school is in safe," he said.
Kienle said the program helps develop leadership skills and a spirit of volunteerism among young people.
"Stepping up and taking a role like this speaks to your desire and the fact that you are leaders in your school community," he said.
Following the pledge ceremony, students received certificates recognizing their service.
The City of Yorkton began hosting annual safety patrol installation ceremonies in 2022 after local students presented the idea to city council. Since then, city officials and the Protective Services Committee have worked with local schools to formally recognize student patrollers each fall.
CAA Saskatchewan supports the program by providing safety vests, stop paddles and training materials, while additional support for the recognition event was provided through SGI and local protective service agencies.
