North East ISD custodians play an essential role on every campus and facility. Their hard work, dedication and energy keep our schools clean. In addition, the relationships they build with our students and staff are genuinely priceless.
At a time when staff shortages require more from the employees who do show up, NEISD is grateful for our reliable custodial staff working tirelessly throughout our District.
Bert Gerrish is one of those hardworking custodians.
He’s been working at NEISD for the past three years.
Before sweeping up floors at Stone Oak Elementary School, he worked for public works in Maine shoveling snow.
“I like the weather better here for sure.”
He arrives at 5:45 in the morning and doesn’t usually leave until about 6 in the evening.
He doesn’t mind the hours too much because he gets to spend his days being there for the kids.
“I am there when they need things,” said Gerrish. “Whether they need paper towels or toilet paper or they are upset when they spill their water bottle, I am there to help. And when I am done helping them, they smile and say, ‘Mr. Bert did it again!’”
Just retelling those stories fills Gerrish with pride. He truly loves the role he plays in helping Stone Oak students learn. And they really appreciate him for doing it.
“It’s thank yous all day long from students, teachers, administrators, parents. It’s a family. It’s a community here. It doesn’t feel like a workplace. It’s so cool. This is the school district to come it. NEISD is where it’s at; it’s really special.”
Sunday, October 2, is National Custodian Appreciation Day and NEISD wants all of our custodial teams to know we truly appreciate their hard work.
On top of pay raises this school year, our District recently approved a $100 a month travel incentive for custodians who accept assignments at our hardest to staff campuses north of 1604. All other custodians will receive $50 a month incentive.
To apply to join our incredible custodial teams, click here.
