Jerome Sutton jumped in front of two children and prevented a speeding car from hitting them in 2019.

But it wasn’t only this action that gave the Sun Valley Middle School crossing guard the School Hero award and $10,000 check from the NC Education Lottery.

The community overwhelmingly said that he deserved it.

“He is a beloved staple of the Sun Valley area residents’ morning and afternoon commute and he deserves this more than any other school employee I can think of,” said Erin Monahan of Indian Trail, whose daughter attended the school.

He’s even been honored by the town’s local newspaper for his commitment to students’ safety, reported WBTV.

Officials say Sutton’s dedication to his job and ability to spread a little joy while doing it led to his selection as one of the 10 winners of the Education Lottery’s School Heroes program.

“I don’t really believe this is happening,” said Jerome Sutton.

“Nothing like this has ever happened before. I feel like when you do a job you should put your all into it.”

“People feel comfortable knowing that I am down at the crossing when their child is walking. That makes me feel good. It’s like a big family here.”

READ MORE: WBTV

ABOUT: School Hero Campaign

The North Carolina Education Lottery created the School Heroes campaign to showcase the positive impacts teachers, principals, and other school workers have in public schools every day.

Parents, teachers, and community members submitted more than 6,000 nominations of individuals making a difference in their schools. Ten heroes were chosen with each receiving a $10,000 award and $10,000 for their school.