Recognizing the shining stars...

Today I had the opportunity to speak with one of the members of my high school's custodial staff. This particular team member is assigned to my
classroom. Though we are almost halfway done with the school year, I
have regrettably not spent much time talking to this person. Today was
my chance...

It was so nice to speak with the person that is responsible for making
sure my classroom is ready to go for the next school day. As a teacher,
I come to work every day and I take for granted that my classroom is
clean and ready to go for students. I had no idea how many things need
to happen in order for a classroom to be considered "clean." I spoke at
length with this team member about the very strict and precise
checklist that must be completed on a daily basis...wow, so many things I
never even realized that needed to be dealt with.

I wrote a post back in July called "Do you Recognize the Many Pieces to the Puzzle?",
and today was a great reminder of the important role others play in our
lives. As the conversation was coming to an end, I simply said "thank
you for all your hard work." This particular team member's response was
simple but sad...she told me "you're welcome, I don't hear that very
often." This response made me both sad and happy at the same time. I
know this team member must be doing a great job because I have not had
any classroom issues...too bad her great work has gone somewhat
unnoticed. Until now...

When you go to work tomorrow, please don't forget about the people who
make it all possible. We all have a certain role, and it is together
that we make everything possible. I would like to encourage you to give
thanks to the "stars" who help us do our jobs by doing theirs...