Celebrating Custodial Workers on Recognition Day

ROSEMOUNT, Minn. — Custodians play a vital role in schools, often starting their day before the sun rises and leaving long after the last bell. Mark Glende, a school custodian, reflects on the unique rewards that come with the job.

In an opinion piece, Glende highlights the misconceptions about custodians, noting that their work extends beyond cleaning. ‘We are caretakers of memories, safety, and spaces where children learn, play, and grow,’ he writes. On National Custodial Workers Recognition Day, he urges the community to appreciate the efforts of custodians.

Glende recalls moments when the joy of his job shines through, from finding a lost retainer to receiving heartfelt notes from students. These interactions remind him why he loves his work. ‘A note from a first-grader, written in crayon, can mean more than a card from any store,’ he says.

Custodians like Glende are often unnoticed but are central to school operations. ‘We fix what breaks, mop what spills, and clear what clutters,’ he explains, emphasizing their role in maintaining a safe environment for students and staff.

As schools continue to navigate challenges, custodians remain committed to providing support. Glende says, ‘On this special day, a smile or quick wink is all we need in return.’ His message serves as a reminder of the essential work custodians do every day.