save our crossing guards

To: Councilmember.Yaroslavsky@lacity.org, Councilmember.Hernandez@lacity.org, Councilmember.Blumenfield@lacity.org, Councilmember.mcosker@lacity.org

Subject: Protect Our Kids — Fully Fund the LA Crossing Guard Program

Dear Councilmembers,

As a concerned constituent and community member, I’m writing to urge you to fully fund the City of Los Angeles' Crossing Guard Program in the 2025–26 budget.

The current proposal to cut $6.1 million from the program and reduce the number of crossing guards—replacing some with traffic officers—raises serious concerns about pedestrian safety for our students. Today, LADOT covers only 462 of the 700 requested school intersections. Reducing staffing or shifting responsibilities to non-dedicated personnel would put our children at greater risk during daily commutes.

Mayor Bass’ original plan to expand the program to 550 crossing guards was the right direction. We should be building on that commitment—not scaling it back. School safety is not the place to find savings.

As you review this proposal, I hope you’ll prioritize the safety of children and families by:

• Restoring the full $12.67 million in funding, or more if needed

• Retaining dedicated crossing guards, rather than substituting with traffic officers

• Rejecting any cost-sharing or privatization models that shift responsibility away from the City

I urge you to stand with parents, students, and educators by protecting this essential public safety service. Thank you for your leadership.

Sincerely,