Everyone seems to be in a hurry these days.
But stopping and slowing down a bit can do you some good.
And one of the best places to slow down and stop is the corner of Uhr and Higgins Road outside Northern Hills Elementary School, and that’s all because of Vivica Dukes.
“I now have my travels to Madison High School to include passing by Northern Hills for my dose of inspiration each school day,” said Madison’s Achieve Coordinator Jeffry Van Slycke. “She is THE employee of the century. Though we have amazing staff at every level, every department, I have never seen an employee give life to her role, taking ownership of her purpose with the greatest respect and pride. She gives life to her safety role as I have never seen before.”
Dukes is the crossing guard providing inspiration, joy and safe crossings at that corner of Uhr and Higgins in the mornings and afternoons.
And she does it like no one else.
In fact, her approach to the role is so unique it’s earned its own name.
“I work Mama Patrol. They are my kids, and I have to make sure they get here safely. One little girl comes really early, so I try to be here to cross her, so she doesn’t have to cross by herself.”
Dukes’ head is on a swivel for more than an hour in the morning and an hour in the afternoon.
She’s watching, whistling and waving her flag.
Her arms are out.
She’s crouched and ready to move.
She’s making eye contact with drivers.
She’s keeping up with fast-moving kids.
“I have to have my head straight and get focused. I’ve got to stay alert. I enjoy it. I think of it as if it were my kids.”
Dukes is a mother to three grown children and a grandmother to five.
She loves her babies.
She considers the students crossing her intersection her babies too.
You can tell she genuinely loves each of them.
Asking about their new haircuts or new friends.
She also dances to whatever music cars may be playing as they pass by.
Her smile beams through her mask.
“I like being joyful. These kids are full of joy. So I think spreading joy is important.”
So, next time you’re feeling rushed, try to slow down and stop.
But if you are nearby, make sure you stop at Uhr and Higgins for a dose of joy.
Vivica Dukes is inspiring others and keeping students safe #theNEISDway.
