Cleaning Managers are Driving Healthy Facility Initiatives 

By Corinne Zudonyi, Editor-in-Chief 

When Aneta Mistak, Director of Operations for Illinois' School District 214, joined the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges certification program, she expected to fine-tune her custodial operations. What she didn’t expect was a complete mindset shift — one that would redefine her approach to cleaning as a leadership strategy. 

In a recent Show Central panel discussion at the Clean Buildings Conference, Mistak and Sara Porter of the Healthy Schools Campaign discussed how cleaning professionals are critical drivers of healthier learning environments. While green cleaning products remain foundational, both emphasized that true success lies in institutionalizing cleaning practices with written standard operating procedures (SOPs), vendor transparency, and regular air quality checks. 

The certification program is unique because it prioritizes low- and no-cost improvements, not just major capital upgrades. As Mistak’s team evaluated their practices, they found many green methods already in place, but little documentation. That triggered a push for consistent training, vendor vetting, and SOP development for everything from floor care to disinfecting routines. 

Porter added that today's green cleaning is more affordable, accessible, and effective than ever. And with the right plan in place, it’s possible to meet sustainability goals without sacrificing performance — or blowing the budget. 

Listen to the full audio to learn more.  

Corinne Zudonyi is the Editor-in-Chief of the commercial cleaning market, which includes Contracting Profits magazine, Facility Cleaning Decisions magazine, Sanitary Maintenance magazine, CleanLink.com, and the Clean Building events. 

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posted on 7/15/2025