Source: The Imperial Valley Press
HEBER — A simple act of kindness from Heber Elementary School District crossing guard Adam Conn was recently recognized to an extent he never imagined.
After Assemblyman Eduardo Garcia, D-Coachella, heard Conn had been purchasing and distributing ice-cold water bottles to help keep HESD students hydrated during scorching weather, the assemblyman held a recognition ceremony Tuesday at Heber Elementary to present the crossing guard with a California State Assembly certificate of recognition.
“Today is about recognizing Adam and the volunteerism that he puts forward and to show him that his kind gesture of giving back in this particular way now leaves a mark across the state,” Garcia said.
At the start of summer last school year, Conn began using his own funds to purchase enough ice and water bottles to fill about four ice chests at the corner of Eleventh and Heber streets for students to enjoy.
“When it started getting really hot, I felt guilty because I was drinking water in front of them, so I’m like, ‘I got to do something,’” Conn said.
Garcia said Conn’s act of kindness also helped inspire the creation of ACR 243, a statewide resolution which recognizes September as Crossing Guards Keep Our Children Safe Month.
“School crossing guards go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of our students,” Garcia said. “On a daily basis, we entrust the safety of our children to these unsung heroes like Mr. Conn, who has distinguished himself with a remarkable story of service.”
Conn, a 35-year-old Imperial Valley native who has been a HESD crossing guard for only one year, said he feels the recognition is a “green light” for him to keep volunteering and caring about the kids.
“It humbled me,” he said. “I did something that meant something. That, in itself, has some weight and makes you feel like you’re being a good person.”
Conn said he believed the month-long observation in honor of crossing guards across the state was much needed.
