NEW ROCHELLE, NY (October 3, 2025) — The City School District of New Rochelle celebrated National Custodian Appreciation Day on October 2, honoring the hard-working custodians who keep spaces clean, safe, and shining bright. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the observance, which recognizes the essential role custodians play in maintaining facilities across schools, offices, hospitals, and public spaces.
The district extended a special message of gratitude to its custodians, emphasizing their dedication. The celebration featured a striking image of a custodian at work, accompanied by the district’s logo and the phrase “Mission Changing the World.” The City School District of New Rochelle underscored the occasion with the statement, “Thank you! For keeping our spaces clean, safe & shining bright!”
Established in 1985, National Custodian Appreciation Day—also known as National Custodial Worker’s Recognition Day—originated from a late 20th-century push to acknowledge custodial contributions, with roots tracing back to 1972 when educators began advocating for their role in creating safe learning environments. The day celebrates the “countless hours” custodians invest in keeping public places hygienic and welcoming, often working varying shifts across multiple sites.
Derived from the Latin “custos” meaning guardian, custodians protect spaces, from stocking restrooms to handling maintenance during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Awareness of their year-round impact has grown through social media and campaigns. In 2025, initiatives like Rubbermaid Commercial Products’ “Behind the Scenes of Clean” campaign align with the day and Environmental Services Week to promote ongoing appreciation. School districts nationwide, including Salem and Wyandanch, also use the occasion to spotlight their custodians’ vital services.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.