CAA Manitoba marks a milestone as thousands of young safety patrollers continue a tradition spanning generations and communities across the province
For nine decades, Manitoba students have played an important role in helping their classmates get to and from school safely.
CAA Manitoba is celebrating the 90th anniversary of its School Safety Patrol program, a long-running initiative that teaches elementary school students about road safety while developing leadership and community involvement skills.
The program has grown far beyond its beginnings at a single school. Today, approximately 8,000 student patrollers at 250 schools across Manitoba participate in the initiative, helping fellow students navigate school zones safely while serving as role models in their communities.
To mark the milestone, student patrollers from across the province gathered at the Manitoba Legislative Building for a special day of recognition. Activities included a tour of the legislature, meetings with provincial ministers, participation in the Speaker’s March and attendance during Question Period before gathering for a commemorative group photo.
According to CAA Manitoba, the program began in 1936 when the province’s first patrol team was organized at Greenway School. Since then, generations of Manitoba students have worn the familiar patrol vest and taken on the responsibility of promoting safe road-crossing habits.
Beyond traffic safety, the program focuses on developing skills such as teamwork, volunteerism and leadership among students in Grades 5 through 8.
The initiative continues to operate through partnerships involving schools, teachers and police services throughout Manitoba, including agencies in Brandon, Morden and other communities across the province.
CAA Manitoba says the anniversary is an opportunity to recognize both the students currently serving as patrollers and the thousands of Manitobans who have participated in the program over the last 90 years.
As another school year continues, the organization hopes the program’s legacy of students helping students will carry on for generations to come.
📊 CAA School Safety Patrol By the Numbers
90 Years
CAA Manitoba is celebrating the 90th anniversary of the School Safety Patrol program in 2026.
8,000 Student Patrollers
Approximately 8,000 Manitoba students currently participate in the program each year.
250 Schools
The program operates in roughly 250 schools across the province.
1936
The first Manitoba School Safety Patrol was launched at Greenway School.
Grades 5-8
Students in Grades 5 through 8 typically serve as school safety patrollers.
230,000+ Members
CAA Manitoba serves more than 230,000 members across the province.
