Schools are much more than just teachers and students. Staff members including custodians, bus drivers and cafeteria workers all work very hard behind the scenes, ensuring a clean and safe environment.
As the first face students see in the morning and the last face they see before going home, bus drivers are essential to education. Among other things, they get kids to and from school, a task that is important yet stressful. Sometimes, bus drivers have to navigate through rough weather conditions and crowded traffic.
Not only do bus drivers drive, they often look after and monitor the students while on the bus. Occasionally, bus drivers might also have to settle fights that break out among students. The role of a bus driver is much more complicated than one would think.
Senior Keaton Enrke believes all behind-the-scenes workers are extremely important to keeping a school running. “Cafeteria workers and all the other behind-the-scenes workers at school are essential to keeping normal school operations. Without these people, the basic functions of a school wouldn’t be possible,” said Enrke. “PV wouldn’t be at the same level of success without great lunch, cleaning and bus drivers.”
Another major, yet often overlooked, part of school operations is the custodians. They have the role of ensuring that hallways, classrooms, bathrooms and common areas are clean. This helps provide a healthy environment for students and staff. Custodians do far more than mopping or vacuuming the floors; they also help with addressing any issues that come up in a school building.
Often, custodians are the first people to notice and respond to problems ranging from broken lights to pipes and safety concerns that may interrupt a school day. These issues are resolved quickly and quietly by custodians. As a result of their work, students and staff are able to do what they do best without disruptions or distractions.
The cafeteria staff plays an important role in the life of any student or staff member. They not only provide food but also a sense of comfort. Whether it be breakfast, lunch or snacks, cafeteria workers make sure that students get a well-balanced meal to keep them energized for both academic and extracurricular activities.
Senior Jatin Kodavatiganti believes cafeteria workers are extremely important for a school to function. “I think cafeteria workers are important for school. They keep everything sanitary and help us locate things as we need,” said Kodavatiganti. “They also know every student personally and connect with them and ensure they get their needs met.”
The work cafeteria staff does is not only about serving food, but it’s about serving students with well-balanced meals. Every school has to follow dietary restrictions, ensuring all students have the same opportunities to have a healthy meal.
Stephanie Denboer, Pleasant Valley High School food service manager, believes one of the most difficult things about being a cafeteria worker is following these dietary restrictions. “The hardest part about following the dietary restrictions would be flavors. We cannot add salt, sugar or fat to anything we serve. How do you make something bland taste appetizing without these ingredients that the majority will enjoy?” explained Denboer. “I am able to get only a few select items that are approved by the state to help with this problem. An example would be ‘salt-free’ seasonings.”
Behind every great day at school are many heroes who make it run smoothly. While teachers get most of the praise, the behind-the-scenes workers like bus drivers, custodians and cafeteria staff make up a standard school day. Students can show appreciation by acknowledging their valuable efforts and jobs.
