Highlighting RAHS Custodians and Maintenance Staff

The Unseen Efforts: Highlighting RAHS Custodians and Maintenance Staff

By, McKenzie Osborne

Every morning, students and staff walk into a clean, functional school building without a second thought. That effortless environment is the result of the tireless efforts of a small, dedicated group of people who work around the clock—often in the quiet hours when the rest of the school is asleep.

“I went to Europe over the summer, and totally forgot about my plants. The custodians took care of them for me,” said Mrs. Kate Czarnecki.

Custodians at RAHS go above and beyond expectations to keep our school in its best state.

"Our custodial staff is a relatively small group of people who work hard every day to keep our school running," says Associate Principal Mr. Matt Bauer.

The custodial team works a range of eight-hour shifts, with the earliest starting at 5 A.M. Their names are: Chris Ellefson, Andrew Gardner, Jonathan Irwin, Nate Jahnke, Alan Kiem, Ted McGinnis, and Jill Mortimer.

The team is also supported by Mr. Dave Estes, the current Mayor of Reedsburg. Mr. Estes has worked in the district for eight years, starting as a custodian and now serving as a maintenance technician.

Bauer highlights the crucial, unseen labor of the team: “They make sure the school is warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Staff and students don’t have to worry about the systems running.”

Dedication to the District

Ted McGinnis is a perfect example of dedication. He starts his shift at 5 A.M., responsible for unlocking doors and ensuring the final touches of polish are complete before students arrive. McGinnis has been with the district for an incredible 38 years and has worked at RAHS since the second semester it opened in 1999.

"Working for the district has been nice. It’s changed a lot over the years, but the administration is good to us," says McGinnis about his long tenure. “We’re told we do a nice job. I think we’re appreciated enough to still be here.”

The next time you enter a classroom, take a moment to notice the cohesiveness of the room and the clean environment.

“Most staff go unseen,” says Bauer. “So when you see them, thank them.”