Schools

Pierson Students Say "Goodbye" To Their Faithful Crossing Guard [With Video]

After seven years of continual service in the fog, rain, sleet and snow, "Mr. Ronn" is retiring.

 

Ronald Bonaiuto, known to many students at the , their parents, the school's teachers and staff, and many, many dogs, is retiring from his post as the school's crossing guard. 

"Mr. Ronn" has held the post faithfully for the past seven years, said Principal Angela Guarascio.

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"There was just one day in the entire time he has been here that I didn't see him outside the school at 7:00 a.m.," noted Guarascio. 

The principal said she was concerned, as Ronn was so conscientious about his duties.

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"I called the (who are the hiring authority for the school crossing guards) and they sent someone over," she said.

By the time the police officer arrived, Ronn was at his post.

"He had forgotten his lighted STOP sign at home," said Guarascio.

Ronn will conclude his seven years of service on Monday, June 18, the last day of school.

About 60 to 70 students walk to Pierson, which is located in the heart of town, noted school employee Pat Johnson. Some walk every day, some walk two or three times a week.

Ronn is at his post beginning at 7:00am and in the afternoon at 2:10pm with treats for all the family dogs, noted Johnson.

The students, staff and several parents held a farewell cupcake party for Ronn on June 13.

"He knows every child's name and even their dog's names," said Tina Accetta who has four children in the Clinton school system, two who attend Pierson. "He always waits for the very last student to cross the road. He even knows everyone's car."

Ronn, who is 71 years young, will continue to work part-time at the

"Today's event was a total surprise to me," said Ronn. "I'll miss this - all the kids, the parents, the teachers, the dogs. They are all fantastic. It has been a pleasure watching these kids grow up from fourth grade to fifth grade. The whole school is great."

Anyone looking to fill Ronn's shoes for the upcoming 2012-2013 school year at the Pierson School please contact Sgt. Jeremiah Dunn at the at 860-669-0451.


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