Custodian

At Cleveland Elementary, the lunchroom is more than just a place where students eat—it’s a space filled with laughter, life lessons, and kindness, thanks to Custodian Dave. While his job description may include sweeping floors and emptying trash cans, Dave has taken on a much larger role: that of a mentor, friend, and role model to the students he interacts with every day.

For years, Dave has been a steady and positive presence in the lunchroom. He greets students, listens to their stories, and encourages them to make good choices. When conflicts arise, he diffuses them with humor and wisdom, teaching kids how to work through their differences. Rather than just enforcing rules, he models respect and patience, setting an example for students on how to treat others.

For Dave, it’s about more than just keeping the lunchroom clean—it’s about building a sense of community. Whether he’s offering a high-five, sharing a joke, or giving advice, he makes Cleveland Elementary a better place for everyone. His influence reaches far beyond the lunchroom, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of the students he encounters.

In a world that sometimes overlooks everyday heroes, Custodian Dave reminds us that the simplest acts of kindness and connection can make the biggest difference.