Encinitas extends crossing-guard coverage; council approves cost-sharing with school districts

The Encinitas City Council voted unanimously June 24 to continue and expand funding for school crossing guards in partnership with the Encinitas Union School District and the San Dieguito Union High School District.

Staff said the program began in 2019 in response to district requests and has grown incrementally as schools and the city identified new crossing locations that need on-site control. The city’s role is to work with school officials, traffic engineering and the sheriff’s department to evaluate sites during peak times and, when warranted, add crossing guard coverage. Staff said decisions about new crossings typically originate with school principals or district safety directors and are evaluated with city staff and a sheriff deputy.

Council heard staff explain the program’s expansion: what began with two crossing guards in 2019 has grown to 14 guards across the districts and a current city share of approximately $193,000. Council discussion noted that the city pays about 50 percent of crossing guard wages and that the average cost per guard is roughly $14,000 annually, figures offered as context for future budgeting decisions.

Public comment included support from residents and from certified instructor Christine Schindler, who told council crossing guards help parents feel comfortable allowing children to walk and bike to school.

Council voted to adopt the staff recommendation to continue and fund the program; the motion carried unanimously. Council also asked staff to include, in future reports, a table showing historical funding levels, the number of guards funded and per-guard cost so members can monitor cost trends.

The council’s action maintains the current approach of shared cost with the districts and the routine on-site evaluation process for adding guards.

Votes at a glance: motion to approve staff recommendation carried unanimously.