In recognition of those who have made the pledge to protect Arizona’s school children, AAA Arizona reminds schools that it is still accepting nominations for the fourth annual Crossing Guard of the Year Award.

“Crossing guards are vital members of our community because of their dedication to our children’s safety,” said Linda Gorman, director of communications and public affairs for AAA Arizona. “They are up early every day to perform a valuable service, and we wholeheartedly appreciate their commitment.”

The auto club invites school administrators, faculty, staff, parents, students and community members to nominate their candidates whom they believe deserve the Crossing Guard of the Year designation. Self-nominations will also be accepted.

AAA Arizona traffic safety staff will evaluate nominations to select finalists for the award based on dedication, friendliness, professionalism and safety. The honors will be awarded to the two finalists, one from Maricopa County and one from Pima County, who demonstrate the best example of the procedures and responsibilities outlined in AAA’s Handbook for Adult Crossing Guards. Those winners will be announced on Crossing Guard Appreciation Day, April 29, 2011. Winners will receive a recognition plaque and a $100 Target gift card.

Last year, AAA honored the award to Lena Dougherty of Val Vista Lakes Elementary School in Gilbert, and Jim and Kathy Koellisch of Coyote Trails Elementary School in Tucson, after receiving nearly 200 nominations from students, parents, community members and school faculty.

Nomination forms are available at all Maricopa County and Pima County school district offices or can be downloaded online at www.az.aaa.com/news/traffic/CrossingGuardoftheYear.htm. Completed forms can be mailed to AAA Arizona, Attn: Public Affairs, 3144 N. 7th Avenue, Phoenix, Ariz., 85013, faxed to (602) 776-0466, or emailed to publicrelations@arizona.aaa.com. Nominations must be submitted by March 11, 2011.