Position: Head Custodian
School: Paradise Intermediate School
School District: Paradise Unified School District
City, State: Paradise, CA
Brian Edwards was nominated by a colleague who wishes to remain anonymous.
Mr. Edwards has changed the culture and climate of his school in many positive ways since he started. He is an extraordinarily cheerful, positive person who makes every student feel welcome and important. His daily interactions with students and staff are always responsive, positive, and supportive. Since he has arrived at the school (which is older and in consistent need of maintenance), the building has become a cleaner, safer and more inviting place to be.
Mr. Edwards works with only one other custodian on a campus that used to employ seven people to keep the school clean and maintained. He never complains about the work load, the busy schedule, or being interrupted from his daily tasks to address the needs of a classroom or teacher.
Last year, he suffered a severe injury, yet continued to be the same hardworking, cheerful influence at the school. When he recovered, he went into overdrive, and the school continues to become better and better.
"He is one of the most professional, positive, and hard working custodians I've ever had the pleasure of working with over a decade of teaching. He deserves high praise and recognition and we are lucky to have him as an integral part of our staff," his nominator said.