Maroondah Council bans crossing supervisor from handing out treats to students

Warranwood Primary School’s beloved crossing supervisor Kaye Kittelty has been handing out icy poles and hot pies to children and even treats to dogs for four years, but has been told by Maroondah Council she must stop after a complaint from a parent.

Ms Kittelty said she was “peeved off” by the red tape and was desperate to make sure the children did not miss out.

“I got a phone call from my supervisor who said I couldn’t do it anymore because someone had complained,” Ms Kittelty said.

“It’s the principle of the thing and it makes you wonder what the world is coming to.”

Maroondah Mayor Natalie Thomas said VicRoads regulations did not allow supervisors to be distracted by any outside activities, including sharing gifts when on duty.

“The safety of the children is their key priority,” Cr Thomas said.

A group of Year 6 students has started a petition calling on the council to reverse the ban, with much of her loyal fan base agreeing to sign.

Warranwood mum Kate Jones said her children loved Ms Kittelty so much, they would demand to park further down the road just so they could get an icy pole on a hot day.

Year 2 student Liam, 8, said “it was just unfair and mean”.

Charlotte, 10, said the gifts “encouraged kids to walk more” and Madeleine, 8, said she liked the icy poles and the presents Ms Kittelty gave out at Christmas, such as tree pens.

Cr Thomas said she was not aware of a petition or complaint over the ban, but said the council would not allow a breach of statewide regulations.

Warranwood principal Steve Albon declined to comment on the matter, saying the school’s four crossing supervisors “all did a fantastic job and the families and students loved them dearly”

VicRoads has been contacted for comment.