If there were ever a year that we needed to thank custodians and show our appreciation, 2020 is that year. October 2 each year is National Custodial Worker Recognition Day. The one secret teachers learn is the importance of custodial staff. This information is not taught in a teacher prep programs, but it is key.
During the end of last school year and during this school year, the tasks that custodial staff have to complete have doubled or even tripled in some cases. Yet, they show up and get the job done. They are putting themselves at risk daily. When staff and students need to be quarantined because of the coronavirus, they sanitize the room and other necessary items to ensure instruction can happen.
Just because they have extra tasks does not mean they have received extra pay. Their bodies are more physically taxed than they were before, but they know the importance of completing their tasks so the school can function. This leaves little physical or mental energy for their loved ones or the lives they have outside of work.
They matter! They are important eyes and ears of the school. Many custodians make personal connections with students and staff.
Today, and every day after today, say thank you to the custodians in your building. It’s the least we can do. Just because keeping our building functional is the job they get paid to do, we still need to recognize them and acknowledge their importance.