For FMHS custodian Harold White, the school year started on a high note when he was presented with a $250 check and the Texas Trust Credit Union “Trusted Heroes” Award. This year, Texas Trust recognized four individuals, including teachers, administrators, and essential workers, from each school district within its footprint. Its “Trusted Heroes” award commends the efforts of staff over the past academic year, particularly in light of the challenges brought about by the pandemic. White earned the award for his diligence as the lead of the FMHS nighttime custodial staff. 

“I show up every day and do my job to the best of my abilities, and I hope people can see the hard work that not just me, but my crew puts in as well,” White said. 

White has worked as a custodian at FMHS for 18 years, beginning in the 2002-2003 school year. He and the night custodial staff regularly dedicate long hours to maintaining the cleanliness of the school’s facilities. However, due to the pandemic and campus renovation, they have assumed extra duties, including increased sanitizing measures for the safety of students and staff. Electrostatic cleaning of classrooms, for instance, is an additional LISD protocol carried out through their efforts. Though such changes from the pandemic have been difficult, White and the custodial staff work together to fulfill the new demands with persistence. 

Congratulations to White for earning the “Trusted Heroes” Award, and a special thank you to him and the custodial staff for their dedication. “After all these years, the most rewarding part of my job is just being recognized by parents, teachers, and a few students here and there,” White said.