For the students and staff of Mountain Heritage High School, located in Burnsville, North Carolina, the school day officially begins at the 8:15 a.m. bell. For Mr. Wilson, a school custodian, the day starts much earlier.
Mr. Wilson chooses to arrive before dawn each day, making sure the building is in prime condition for students and staff. That dedication, according to Principal Williams allows “everything else a chance to succeed.”
Today, we recognize Custodian Appreciation Day — a celebration of the essential, hardworking custodial and support staff across the state, funded partly by $386 million a year in lottery proceeds.
Mr. Wilson’s dedication goes far beyond his daily duties. As the first smiling face students see when they arrive, a ready listener and source of comfort, he is passionate about their success.
“I want the kids to do well,” he shares. Whether you find Mr. Wilson on a school bus picking up students, or on the ball field coaching students in sport and character, his devotion to the school, his own alma mater, is unmistakable.
“I hope it helps them [students] down the road somewhere, because they are special,” Wilson shared. Mr. Wilson’s impact embodies what school custodians do every day across the state.
These staff members keep our buildings clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone. Money raised by the lottery supports the cost of non-instructional staff for all 115 school districts, helping ensure these essential positions can continue to keep our schools running smoothly.
Do you know a behind-the-scenes hero like Mr. Wilson at your local school? Nominate support staff for a chance to win $2000 at MovingNCStudentsForward.com.
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