AP Investigation Reveals Life-Threatening Risks for School Crossing Guards
Investigative journalists Dasia Garner, Haya Panjwani, and Aaron Kessler from The Associated Press responded to a tip about dangers facing school crossing guards by filing numerous public records requests nationwide. Their inquiry uncovered a widespread, often ignored threat to some of the most vulnerable community workers.
Scope of the Investigation
In collaboration with Cox Media Group as part of AP’s Local Investigative Reporting Initiative, the team identified crossing guard injuries or fatalities in at least 37 states plus Washington, D.C. This partnership broadened the reach of the reporting, delivering the findings to audiences in dozens of media markets.
Innovative Storytelling Approach
This extensive, months-long investigation was presented across multiple formats, highlighted by AP’s first multi-part investigative audio series. The series combined thorough research, data-driven insights, and compelling personal stories to highlight the dangers these workers face daily.
Voices and Impact
The series captured firsthand accounts of loss and fear from crossing guards and their families nationwide, exposing how inconsistent regulations and insufficient oversight put lives at risk every school day.
Recognition
Judges commended the project for its ambitious cross-format execution, strong local-to-national collaboration, and deep emotional impact.
Author's summary: The investigation exposes critical safety gaps for school crossing guards, revealing a national issue often neglected despite real risks and tragedies faced daily.