Cleanzine: your weekly cleaning and hygiene industry newsletter 25th April 2024 Issue no. 1111
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Exemplifying the 'American Dream', 73-year-old crowned 2019 School Custodian of the Year
And the winner of the 2019 Custodian of the Year contest is... Aristeo Flores! With over 278,600 votes, Cintas Corporation yesterday crowned Aristeo Flores of Scotts Valley, (California) Middle School the 2019 Custodian of the Year. Aristeo will receive a $5,000 cash prize and his school will also receive $5,000 in products and services from Cintas and Rubbermaid Commercial Products.
Known for his warm, kind smile, Aristeo is an integral part of the Scotts Valley Middle School community. His gentle demeanor, sense of humour and hard work has left a positive impact on students past and present for the last 17 years. So when the opportunity came for his town of 12,000 to show him just how much he means to them, they ensured he won with more than 30% of the vote.
During a surprise award presentation ceremony at the school, Aristeo was met with 530 overjoyed students who thought they were attending a pep rally. With T-shirt cannons, giant balloons, a staff dance and an ice cream truck with treats for the whole school, it was clear why the 73-year-old isn't ready to retire - his love of the students.
In an emotional speech from his son Miguel, Aristeo was described as someone who's been an underdog his whole life. "My dad is an immigrant from Mexico who came here for the American Dream. Now I know why at 73-years-old he never talks about retiring. I get it - this is why he doesn't retire. You guys are the reason he doesn't retire."
Jillian Bauer, Cintas marketing manager, added: "The Custodian of the Year contest celebrates the many ways custodians make a difference in our schools. It's clear from Aristeo's win and the support that he's received from day-one of this contest, that he is not only loved by his school, but by the community as well."
Michael Halak, president, Rubbermaid Commercial Products, added: "Aristeo represents the best-of-the-best with his attitude, spirit and commitment to maintaining a healthy school for each and every student. We're honoured to recognise him today for his achievements and hope to bring a smile to his face like he's done for so many others throughout the last 17 years."
Nine contest runners-up will be awarded a $500 cash prize. They will also receive a $1,300 prize package from Rubbermaid consisting of cleaning tools and products.
16th May 2019