Thank you, Custodians!
October 2 is Custodian Appreciation Day. Thanks to our custodians, we all have a clean, safe place to learn, teach, and work. Across the division, Fairfax County Public Schools employs more than 1,300 custodians, field custodians, and building supervisors.
One fantastic example of custodial employees is the 2022 Outstanding School-Based Operational Employee Frank Sarfo, custodian at Little Run Elementary School.
“The title of custodian does not embody all that Frank is to the Little Run staff, students, and families,” his Honors recognition stated.
Mr. Frank, as he is affectionately known, is originally from Ghana, where he was a soccer player. Mr. Frank cares not only about the Little Run building, but also for everyone who uses it.
“Frank is a leader in our school as he demonstrates the innate ability to show care and genuine concern for the school community he serves,” says Little Run Principal Christie Yarn. “Frank comes to school every day to do his assigned job, but he also models kindness and contributes to our caring culture. He is incredibly relatable to the students and staff as he takes pride in sharing aspects of his culture and love for soccer. He has a lasting impact on the people he has encountered.”
Mr. Frank has been known to fix a student’s bike during the school day so the student could ride home. When a kindergartener was anxious and refusing to go to school, he began to excitedly greet him and walk him in. He is a super star in the annual 6th grade vs. school staff kick ball game (dressing head to toe in his Ghanan soccer uniform).
“Frank is an integral part of our school community,” says Julia Haywood, chair of the Special Education Department. “Not only does Frank excel as a custodian, but he also brings joy to both students and staff. Frank always fosters an environment that makes everyone feel welcomed and appreciated. We are lucky to have Frank as a part of our Little Run community.”
For Mr. Frank, and all the custodians throughout the division, today, we thank you!
Columbia Elementary School custodial staff Blanca Chicas, Le Pham, and Jacqueline Candray.
