TAMPA – As the school year kicks off, AAA invites elementary schools across the country to join the world’s largest student-led safety initiative—the AAA School Safety Patrol® program.

For more than a century, AAA has equipped young leaders with the tools and training to protect their peers and promote safer school zones. Today, over 679,000 students at 35,000+ schools nationwide wear the iconic fluorescent belts and nickel-plated badges that symbolize teamwork, leadership, and civic responsibility.

Participating schools receive:

• Electric-lime fluorescent belts for visibility,
• Nickel-plated badges for patrol members,
• Training guides and other support materials.

AAA School Safety Patrollers assist fellow students—not direct traffic—by helping them safely navigate to and from school. Their visible presence and structured training have been credited by global safety organizations with reducing pedestrian injuries among children aged 5 to 14, the demographic most at risk.

What patrollers Do

• Complete training in traffic safety,
• Monitor school crossings and bus zones,
• Serve as peer safety mentors,
• Take on leadership roles under school staff supervision.

Teachers and principals typically select patrol members, with parents’ approval. Many schools partner with local law enforcement to further strengthen community support.

“For over a hundred years, this program has empowered kids to be everyday heroes,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “We encourage schools not yet participating to enroll this year and help make school zones safer, one Safety Patroller at a time.”

Getting ftarted is fimple

• Schools can easily sign up at AAA.com/safetypatrol
• For a minimal cost, schools order safety gear and will receive comprehensive training guides.

Give students the power to make a difference—with bright belts, brave hearts, and bold leadership.