Group Of High School Students Applauding Presentation


A beloved Maryland employee received a boisterous farewell on his final day of work.

Mario Gonzalez of Good Counsel High School had worked as the school’s janitor for nearly four decades. His 39 years of service went beyond cleaning the building and focused on cultivating connections with the staff and students. These relationships resulted in the resounding sendoff Gonzalez received for his retirement.

Although born prematurely with cerebral palsy, Gonazlez has not let his complex communication needs hinder him from building bonds with his school community. Generations of children have viewed Gonzalez as an essential fixture, always available for a comforting smile or an affirming high five. Lining the hallways he had cleaned for years, they celebrated the custodian who made such a positive impact on their lives.