School Custodian Recognized As Superhero To Kids

Armed with a positive attitude and his handy cleaning equipment, Kris Pomp is seen as a superhero to the students and staff at East Dale Elementary School in Fairmont, West Virginia. Not only does he conquer clogged toilets with ease, and rescue students and staff from slippery, snowy sidewalks, he also tackles random pests.

This last point gave school officials an idea of how to distract Pomp as students and staff gathered for a surprise. The custodian was told that a snake was loose in the school, but soon found himself standing on stage as faculty praised his dedication to the job.

According to TimesWV, it was then that Pomp was announced as one of the 10 finalists for Cintas Corporations’ Janitor of the Year award.

School faculty comment that the recognition is deserved because of the hard work that Pomp puts in, but also because he goes the extra mile. He takes on tasks that don't necessarily fall into his job description, but need to get done. He also participates in good-will programs put on by the school.

According to the nomination, "Every week, Mr. Pomp puts on his charitable cape and assists with East Dale’s Honey Bag distribution – a local backpack program that provides meals to children who would otherwise not have access to food during the weekends or breaks. He also participates in the school’s Positive Behavior and Intervention and Support Program. With a heroic heart and a friendly smile, Mr. Pomp isn’t just a superhero, he’s a true everyday hero."

In its fifth year, the Janitor of the Year Contest was created to draw attention to the everyday heroes that go above and beyond their job description to make schools a clean, healthy and fun learning environment. The 2018 Janitor of the Year winner will be determined by the number of votes and will receive a $5,000 cash prize along with $5,000 in products and services for his or her school from Cintas and Rubbermaid Commercial Products – not to mention bragging rights. A $500 cash prize will be awarded to each of the remaining nine finalists.

To see all the finalists and to cast your vote, click here.