With all the police officers and members of the media just outside her front door, Leora Farnsworth thought there was a drug bust in the neighborhood.

But she quickly found out that all the hype was directed her way.

In honor of her 38 years of service as a crossing guard, Leora received special recognition from Governor Gary Herbert, who declared the first day of the school year as Crossing Guard Appreciation Day.

“I love this job,” Leora said as she tried to contain her excitement and laughter.

She has never missed a day of in all her years working as a crossing guard near Spring Lane Elementary and Bonneville Junior High.

“A smile goes a long way,” she said. “Children expect you to have a smile on your face.”