GCPS Custodians: Supporting clean, safe learning spaces

When students, families, and community members enter any GCPS location, the clean environment—hallways, classrooms, restrooms, and learning spaces—directly reflect the efforts of that building’s custodial team. At the district’s 37th Annual Custodial Awards Ceremony, head custodians and custodial teams representing every Gwinnett school and the Instructional Support Center were honored for their work to support clean, safe, and welcoming places to learn and work.

Snellville MS Head Custodian Svetlana Bantya was recognized for 20 years of service and has earned 15 consecutive Head Custodian of the Year awards. “I work with 1,100 students and teachers every day,” Bantya says. “My team works together, and I teach them to listen, do everything from the heart and with a smile.”

Yudith Hernandez, head custodian at Berkmar MS for 21 years, achieved her 16th award. “Every time anyone walks into my school, I want them to say, ‘This school always looks clean,’ and I want them to enjoy learning in a clean environment,” she says. “I have the best communication with my team, and we are a family. We take care of each other, and take care of the students, staff, teachers, and the community. I want everyone to see that my school looks the same from the first day of school to the end of the school year.”

Several head custodians were recognized for their overall years of service, often performing with distinction at more than one school over their careers. Director of Environmental, Print, and Supply Services Stephen Hatcher shares, “Head custodians carry on a legacy of training and developing their staffs, regardless of where they located.”

Celebrating 15 years with GCPS, Delphin Thomas earned his eighth award as Head Custodian at Five Forks MS. “It’s important to create a safe, clean environment. Students should learn in comfort in a clean setting. The students are appreciative, and classrooms will send letters of thanks.”

Winn Holt ES Head Custodian Carol Back, a 35-year veteran with the district, was honored with her 25th consecutive award. “Treat your building like home and family, and put that pride into it,” she shares. “I absolutely love what I do, and the trainers are top-notch. The students see me in public and say, ‘That’s my custodian!’ It brings joy to my heart, and the constant hugs warm my soul.”