How she shines: Karen Charles proves that great custodial work is found in the details. Whether she is on her hands and knees scrubbing stubborn grout or asking for adhesive floor dots so cafeteria tables can be lined up perfectly after waxing, Karen notices what others might miss.
Years in the industry: 3 years
Job responsibilities: As a custodian, Karen Charles is responsible for maintaining a clean, sanitary, safe, and welcoming school environment for students and staff. Her daily responsibilities include cleaning and disinfecting classrooms, restrooms, offices, hallways, and common areas; maintaining floors and restroom fixtures; removing trash and recycling; restocking custodial supplies; identifying and reporting maintenance or safety concerns; and completing detailed and periodic cleaning tasks as needed. Karen takes particular pride in detail work and goes beyond routine surface cleaning, including hands-on scrubbing of floor tile, grout, corners, and other difficult areas to ensure spaces are thoroughly maintained.
Career path: Karen’s career path at Southern Regional is a great example of how hard work creates opportunity. She began with us as a substitute custodian, where she quickly proved herself through reliability, attention to detail, and a willingness to take on whatever was needed. That strong work ethic led to her becoming a contracted custodian, where she continued to build a reputation as someone we could count on. Karen now also works weekends, further showing her commitment to the district and her willingness to step up when coverage is needed. Her path has been built one shift, one opportunity, and one job well done at a time.
Best advice received: The best career advice Karen has received is, “Do the job right, even when no one is watching.” That mindset shows in everything she does. Karen takes pride in the details, works hard without needing recognition, and never cuts corners just because a task might go unnoticed. Whether she is cleaning, helping in the cafeteria, or filling in for security, she brings the same level of care and responsibility to every role.
Fun fact: People might be surprised to learn that Karen is also a mom to twins, and one of them even works at Southern Regional alongside her. It adds another layer to how connected Karen is to our school community. She has spent years giving her time and energy to the district in multiple roles, and now, part of her own family is part of that same community. For Karen, Southern Regional is more than just a workplace; it has truly become a family affair.