Runner up

Cintas announced this year’s two runners-up in the Custodian of the Year Contest. This year’s finalists joining the grand prize winner in Las Vegas are William “Mr. Billy” Krajewski from Quaker Hill Elementary School in Waterford, Connecticut and David Smith from Loveland Intermediate School in Loveland, Ohio. The two custodians were each surprised with a ceremony at their respective schools by teachers, their families and Cintas representatives. They were awarded a $1,000 cash prize and a trip for two to Las Vegas, where they’ll be celebrated during the ISSA Show North America. 

“Throughout this year’s contest, Mr. Billy and David were shown tremendous support from their respective communities,” says John Rudy, senior marketing director of Cintas. “Along with the other eight finalists, they’re incredibly deserving of this recognition, and we’re thrilled to continue celebrating their accomplishments at the ISSA Show in November.” 

Mr. Billy is a ray of sunshine at his school. His students trust him to keep their school clean, helping them stay healthy as well. He’s highly active in the school’s activities on top of his role as custodian. Students will often find Mr. Billy cheering them on at their games or working the concessions stand. 

“These two custodians go above and beyond to show they care about each individual at their facilities,” said John Barrett, executive director of ISSA. “It’s phenomenal to see custodians, whose work is physically challenging, continue to give their all for their students day in and day out.” 

David is a role model everyone at his school looks up to. He is also a positive role model for his community. For example, when his car window broke during the winter, he held off on getting it repaired so he could give the money to those less fortunate through his church. To show appreciation, the school raised enough money so he could fix the window and even repair his brakes and tires. 

“Mr. Billy and David’s selfless compassion for making their schools better places is truly remarkable,” says Robert Posthauer, SVP and GM of Rubbermaid Commercial Products.  

Mr. Billy and David will also receive a cleaning supply package from Rubbermaid Commercial Products and complimentary tuition to one ISSA Cleaning Management Institute (CMI) virtual training event, valued at $1,500.