Tears And Cheers: Beloved Crossing Guard Receives Emotional Send-Off

March 16, 2024

Today's good news story comes from Berkeley, California.

In the heart of California's Berkeley community, one familiar face has stood as a beacon of safety and kindness for nearly two decades.

Alice Kay Tolbert, affectionately known as Miss Alice, has bid farewell to her post as a crossing guard at the intersection of Keoncrest Drive and Rose Street. Her retirement has sparked an outpouring of love and gratitude from the community she served tirelessly.

crossing guard retirement
Credit: NBC News / YouTube

For nearly 20 years, rain or shine, Miss Alice faithfully guided children safely across the bustling intersection, ensuring not a single child was injured under her watchful eye. But her impact stretched beyond mere safety measures. Miss Alice became a cherished figure for her warmth, positivity, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of every child she encountered.

On her final day, the community came together in a heartwarming display of appreciation. Parents and children, both past and present, gathered with balloons and handmade signs to celebrate Miss Alice's remarkable service. Even older students, who hadn't needed her assistance for years, returned to express their gratitude and bid her farewell.

Penelope Piper-Soto, a young student touched by Miss Alice's kindness, shared fond memories of their interactions: "She'll always high-five me in the morning when I walk to school, and always say hello, and she always has a smile on her face. Once when I was little, I admired her necklace, and it was really pretty... and she gave me the gem that was on the necklace."

Such anecdotes highlight the profound impact Miss Alice had on the lives of those she encountered daily. Her small acts of kindness, whether a reassuring smile or a shared trinket, left an indelible mark on the hearts of Berkeley's residents.

Watch the good news video below.