Chicago Public Schools Celebrates Safe Passage Program
Chicago Public Schools Celebrates Safe Passage Program (Chicago, IL) – Mayor Brandon Johnson and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) CEO Pedro Martinez today joined staff, and community members to celebrate the nearly 1,200 Safe Passage workers that support Chicago’s youth. The Safe Passage Program aims to improve student safety during daily walks to and from school and increase engagement through partnerships with community-based organizations. This year, 191 schools will be connected to Safe Passage routes.
“Ensuring the safety and success of young people in every neighborhood requires contributions at every level, and both inside and outside of school walls,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “Because our Safe Passage workers are parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts and uncles, and residents of the communities they serve, they take special care to watch over our students and to make sure they know they are valued and loved. I am so grateful for the Safe Passage workers for their commitment and care every day for our students.”
Held at the UIC Forum, the Safe Passage Rally also honored 17 Safe Passage workers who were identified as going above and beyond in supporting their school communities. CPS launched the Safe Passage Program in 2009 with 35 schools.
“The Safe Passage program reflects the caring nature of our city, our community partners and Chicago Public Schools,” said CPS CEO Pedro Martinez. “We want every child to feel safe inside and outside of school and that includes their walk to and from school. It’s not just about physical safety but also our collective hope that our students feel a sense of community and know in their core that we, as trusted adults, care about them and believe in them as they pursue and achieve their goals.”
Safe Passage workers are employed by community-based organizations that operate in the school communities that they serve. The CPS Office of Safety and Security provides training to each Safe Passage worker to ensure they are equipped with relationship-building skills, de-escalation strategies and safety protocols to support students during their daily commutes. CPS’ Office of Safety and Security works with school communities and organizations to incorporate feedback on an ongoing basis to ensure that routes are the most effective for our students.
Glenda Rivera became a Safe Passage Worker in 2018 and continues to work in the Hermosa Park neighborhood because she knows she and her co-workers are making a difference. Rivera remembers she cried on her first day because it was so cold but has found that connecting with students and community members has made such challenges worthwhile.
“I love that students know they can come to me and I’m like a security blanket for them, they know they can come to me,” Rivera said. “Parents also feel comforted by the yellow jacket and they know we help protect their children. I like to make them feel that if anything is happening, they can come to me. It’s an important job that helps the community.”
Mayor Johnson, CEO Martinez and team, including CPS Chief Safety and Security Officer Jadine Chou honored 17 exemplary Safe Passage workers during Wednesday’s event. Chief Chou noted the dedication of workers who stand vigil every school day, through rain, snow, and heat. The program also reflects the District’s holistic approach to safety which means that students can connect, and identify with trusted adults, including community members.
“The Safe Passage Program is more than just a service or resource; it provides a very powerful and positive adult presence in school communities,” said Chief Chou. “These dedicated workers often identify and report situations before they ever become a safety concern, allowing us to support student safety and well-being in a proactive manner.”
Chicago Public Schools Celebrates Safe Passage Program
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