The New Jersey School Boards Association is saddened to share that Howard “Howie” Dombroski, Sr., 84, of Spring Lake Heights died on June 20, 2026.
In 2024, Dombroski was celebrated as a winner of NJSBA’s Unsung Superheroes in Education Award for his work as the beloved crossing guard of the Spring Lake Heights School District.
His nomination spoke of his character and kindheartedness. Always cheerful and interactive with the students and parents at his post near Spring Lake Heights Elementary School, Dombroski was a recognizable face for the children. If he was not at his post, he would stay late to watch one of the students’ sporting events. When summer arrived and the school was closed, children would see him checking pool badges at the South End Pavilion.
In a statement by the Spring Lake Heights Police Department, officials stated, “Since joining the Spring Lake Heights community in 2013, Howie became much more than a crossing guard, he was a familiar face, a trusted friend and a source of comfort for countless students, parents and residents. His warm smile, kind words and unwavering dedication helped keep our children safe every school day. […] Howie’s legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the positive example he set for all who knew him.”
The New Jersey School Boards Association is proud to honor this Unsung Superhero and extends its condolences to the Dombroski family.
