Bristol Township Council Honors Crossing Guard for 50 Years of Service

It was easy to spot Rose Betker amid those gathered at the June 6 Bristol Township Council meeting.

She was the only one wearing a bright, yellow jacket with the words “Crossing Guard” printed on the back, as well as a white, plastic helmet designating her as a 50-year crossing guard of Bristol Township.

Most conspicuously of all, Betker also wore a broad grin as she was called to stand before the township council, who bestowed upon her an official commendation for her decades-long service to the community.

Bob Lewis Jr., Bristol Township Council president, read Betker’s commendation.

In it, Lewis stated that Betker joined the Bristol Township Police Department on May 7, 1963 as a school crossing guard.

She began her career stationed at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School in Bristol Township School District. When the school closed, she was reassigned to George Washington Elementary School, where she continues to perform her duties.

“Rose Betker safely crossed thousands and thousands and thousands of children,” Lewis said.

“And, great-grand parents,” Betker added with a laugh.

Lewis went on to read that Betker has touched the lives of three generations of Bristol Township residents, saying that she has been lauded for her dedication and commitment to the township’s children in assisting them with safe passge on their daily journeys to and from school.

Lewis further remarked that Betker’s service to ensure the safety of the township’s children has gone above and beyond the call of duty, saying that she would knit hats and gloves for students who didn’t have any to wear during the winter months. The commendation also notes that Betker performed her duties with perseverance through the harshest of weather conditions.  

The commendation was then voted on as a resolution to be adopted by the council, and was seconded by each member of the council present. The commendation was unanimously approved, and received much applause from those in the audience, which included her children and grandchildren.

In addition to the commendation, the council also presented Betker with a $50 gift certificate to Georgine's Jr. Restaurant.