On Wednesday, March 23, 28 students from 14 different schools attended the AAA School Safety Patrol 2011 Safety Patroller of the Year Awards Banquet. Milton-Union Elementary School’s own Jacob Goodman, a fifth grader, was nominated by the school’s Resource Officer, Deputy Todd Cooper. Each nominee had to complete a 500-word essay explaining how being a safety patroller has helped them develop leadership skills and why the position itself is important.
An honor of the highest regard, the Safety Patroller of the Year Award recognizes exemplary leadership qualities, safety skills, school involvement and citizenship/volunteerism. The winner, Ashlyn Robbins of Englewood Elementary School, was selected by a team of individuals represented by the SAFE organization and AAA. Robbins received a 2-day package to Coco Key Water Resort at Cherry Valley Lodge for her and her family. She was also given a $200 gift card to help with expenses to get to and from the lodge.
Also in attendance was the AAA Patrol Advisor of the Year, Corey Follick. Officer Follick’s nomination, judged by AAA National Representatives, as chosen as the winner from nominations submitted across the country. Officer Follick was given this esteemed award because of his belief in the program’s value, demonstrated traffic safety and leadership skills and his dedication to the students and citizens living in the community. This is the first time someone from the Miami Valley has won this award.
The students, their parents, school representatives and resource officers were treated to a buffet lunch and a short skit by Remy, a ventriloquist, prior to the awards being handed out. Door prizes, such as Dayton Dragons tickets and Kings Island tickets were given to six other students in attendance. Each nominee was also presented with a certificate, medal, and AAA canvas gift bag which included a hat, water bottle, pencils and a ruler. AAA Miami Valley President/CEO Ray Keyton presented the awards and made sure each nominee understood they are all winners for their dedication to keeping Miami Valley students safe each and every day.
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