School officials have confirmed that a crossing guard was struck by a car this morning while parents were dropping their children off for class.

Hazel Butts, the long-time head crossing guard for Gardendale schools, was hit by a vehicle at Gardendale Elementary School.

Principal Laura Ware said Butts was taken to the hospital and checked out; there were no critical injuries in the incident.

Gardendale Police Lt. Bryan Lynch said Butts was released from the hospital and is home resting.

“It’s really stressful to be out there directing traffic,” said Lynch. “We just ask that people be patient with the crossing guards. They’re moving traffic as quickly and as safely as they can.”

It is unclear when Butts will return to work.

“We’re thankful for her and what she does for the school, and we’re thankful she’s OK,” said Ware. “We can’t wait to see her back, waving and smiling at the children again.”

Ware said the Gardendale Police Department responded immediately, as well as officials from the Jefferson County Board of Education.

Butts is well-known in Gardendale as a school crossing guard, which she has done for almost 50 years; she started working as a crossing guard in 1965. She is also active in the Gardendale Arts Council.

“This is just another reason we continue to encourage school safety,” said Ware.