The custodial department hosted its annual professional development event at Farmington High School, bringing together custodians from across the district for a day focused on training, recognition and connection.
This year’s theme, Empower – True power is the power to empower others, set the tone for the event, which highlighted the essential role custodians play in supporting schools and student success.
Kevin Walter, director of custodial services, shared a memorable story during the gathering about training a new employee. After assigning the new hire to vacuum a set of classrooms, he returned an hour later to find the custodian still working in the first room — using the vacuum’s nozzle to slowly pick up debris piece by piece. Sitting just outside the classroom was the vacuum’s roller brush, completely detached.
Once the equipment was properly set up, the task became much easier and more efficient. The experience served as a reminder that even small details can make a big difference — and that when employees are given the right tools and training, they’re empowered to do their jobs better and with greater confidence.
As part of the event, the department introduced a structured onboarding and development program aimed at building confidence, consistency and long-term success. The plan provides new hires with essential skills through hands-on training, mentorship and clear expectations. For those needing extra support, additional coaching and training are available to help every custodian succeed.
The event also celebrated outstanding staff with the annual Custodian of the Year awards.
Ian Calkins, from Creekside Elementary, was named Custodian of the Year. Also from Creekside, Lucy Holbrook was recognized as the Part-Time Custodian of the Year.
Other finalists included Jason Wade (Vae View Elementary) and Allen Walton (Buffalo Point Elementary) for the full-time award, and William Mortensen (West Point Elementary) and Jennifer Wyman (Tolman Elementary) for the part-time category. Edward Wong, also from Tolman Elementary, received an honorable mention.
In addition to awards and training, the event featured prize drawings and a catered lunch—small tokens of appreciation for the vital work custodians do every day.
Ian Calkins (Creekside Elementary)-Custodian of the Year
Lucy Holbrook (Creekside Elementary)-Part-Time Custodian of the Year
Jason Wade (Vae View Elementary)-Finalist-Custodian of the Year
Allen Walton (Buffalo Point Elementary)-Finalist-Custodian of the Year
William Mortensen (West Point Elementary)-Finalist-Part-Time Custodian of the Year
Jennifer Wyman (Tolman Elementary)-Finalist-Part-Time Custodian of the Year
Edward Wong (Tolman Elementary)-Honorable Mention- Custodian of the Year
William Mortenson-Lucy Holbrook-Jennifer Wyman
(Part-Time Custodian of the Year Recipient and Finalists)
Ian Calkins-Allen Walton-Jason Wade
(Custodian of the Year Recipient and Finalists)