Our hearts are full after helping Palma Sola students, families, and neighbors celebrate their beloved school crossing guard, Maggie Pappa, on her 92nd birthday!
The morning began with a surprise fit for a queen — a steady stream of cars so children could hand-deliver thoughtful gifts. There was a chocolate-covered donut from Henry, who shares the same birthday; a dozen pink roses and a balloon from a kindergartner and her mother; a hand-drawn card with an invitation to attend a play the girl is performing in; and a fall leaf someone collected on a recent trip to Tennessee. Each was a heartfelt token from the people and pets who cross Miss Maggie’s path every day.
Palma Sola Elementary’s “chariot” soon arrived to pick up Miss Maggie and escort her to a special celebration in the school courtyard. Assistant Principal Heather Sills was behind the wheel of the golf cart, carrying precious cargo to Principal Jennie Grimes and the waiting crowd. There, every student, teacher, and staff member gathered to sing “Happy Birthday” and shower her with gifts, flowers, and kindness.
Miss Maggie’s joy was contagious. She shared hugs, laughter, and said, “I love you all,” into the microphone before heading back to her post. Smiling ear to ear, she told us she doesn’t know where the years have gone but still feels “like I’m 29.”
If you’ve ever driven by the corner of 67th Street NW and 5th Avenue NW in Bradenton, you’ve likely seen Ms. Maggie holding her stop sign, waving hello, and blowing her whistle to help people and pets safely cross the street. After she helps students from Palma Sola cross the street, she waits for the middle schoolers from King, who make their way to school at her intersection.
Originally from Pittsburgh, Miss Maggie moved to Manatee County in 1994 and is now in her 11th or 12th year as a school crossing guard. Before her retirement, she worked as a clerk for the City of Pittsburgh. A Pirates fan to her very core, she has volunteered for more than 20 years with both the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Bradenton Marauders, helping run the popular “Pitch Game” at LECOM Park.
When asked what she loves most about being a crossing guard, Miss Maggie said:
“They’re always happy. I haven’t come across one who wasn’t smiling. I really, really enjoy it.”
She also expressed gratitude for her team:
“It’s a perfect job — it pays well, it keeps me good physically and mentally, and my bosses are wonderful.”
Her crossing guard partner and fellow Pirates and Marauders volunteer, Tom, jokingly refers to her as his “mother,” but was genuinely grateful when he shared that they share a special bond. Miss Maggie came into his life shortly after he lost his own mom.
As the proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother celebrates this milestone birthday on Saturday, the entire Palma Sola community sends her all the love, laughter, and happiness she brings to everyone else each and every day.
“I’m elated,” Miss Maggie said. “They don’t know me from Adam, but they’re all just so kind and happy — every day.”
She says the key to happiness and good health is staying active, physically and socially, and always being kind.
We love you too, Ms. Maggie!
