It’s that time of year when people start decorating their porches with pumpkins and mums. It brings me joy to see people smiling and pointing at our display. Lately, I’ve tried to live more in the present moment. Something I write about often, noticing the blue in the sky or the trees with patches of leaves turning from green to red.
But there is also something special about nothing the beauty created by other people too. Whether it’s the special care they put into their outfit, the way they keep their car tidy and shiny, or the way they take special care of their office lighting. Seeing people, places, and spaces that are well-maintained sends a message that we are grateful for what we have, and we take great pride in maintaining it.
When we went to the pumpkin patch yesterday to pick up some fall festive decor, I found myself wondering how many people and how many hours are spent taking care of the plants and grounds there. They had a festive, vintage truck parked out front. It was filled with all sorts of plants, flowers, pumpkins, and gourds. It looked like the kind of scenic scape you would find on a holiday card or puzzle and certainly served as the perfect background for those interested in a quick family photo.
When you think about it, the same kind of care goes into our schools on a daily basis. Crystal clear, streak-free windows, shiny floors and smell of clean surfaces greet our students daily, sending a welcome message that affirms how much our students matter to us and how much this work matters to us too.
On the heels of National Custodian Day, thank you to the many professionals who spend countless hours making our schools sparkle and shine. Those who are quick to take care of a spill, an overflowing toilet, and even pests who somehow make their way into our buildings.
Humble, kind, and committed, we could not do this important work every day without you.
There are no small jobs in a school, and we need every professional to make each day a success. If you have a moment to thank someone in your school who goes above and beyond on work that is too often overlooked, please take the time to notice and express your appreciation. You truly never know how much someone needs to hear it.
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