SALEMBURG — Without custodians, it would be really hard for principals and teachers to operate schools. At Salemburg Elementary, appreciation was shown for the employees who provide a safe and clean environment for students in Sampson County Schools.

Jackie Tripp, a custodian from Midway Elementary School, received a ring from Jostens for her service to the district. According to school officials, she has been the longest serving employee in the custodial apartment.

Lee Holcomb, a local Jostens representative, presented the gift to Tripp. He expressed his gratitude and spoke about how custodians are sometimes underappreciated.

The recognition occurred during a recent training session for Occupational Safety an Health Administration (OSHA) requirements. More than 40 custodians participated in the event. The gathering also included maintenance training and safety training for the schools. Fire officials from Sampson County assisted with teaching the custodians safety techniques.

Jostens donated food and additional gifts to the custodians, to show additional appreciation for their service. Willard Bennett, a custodian from Midway High School, was instrumental with collaborating with Jostens.

Mark Hammond, executive director of auxiliary services, expressed how it’s important to recognize the employees for their work. Hammond added that custodians are a very important part of operations in the district.

“They’re an important part of our team in helping us with our mission to keep the schools safe and clean for our kids,” Hammond said. “They do a great job. We try to recognize the ones who have been here the longest and the ones that shine.”

Jackie Tripp, a custodian from Midway Elementary School, receives a gift from Jostens.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/web1_custodian_1.jpgJackie Tripp, a custodian from Midway Elementary School, receives a gift from Jostens.

Lee Holcomb, a local Jostens representative, makes a presentation to custodians from Sampson County Schools.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/web1_custodian_2.jpgLee Holcomb, a local Jostens representative, makes a presentation to custodians from Sampson County Schools.

By Chase Jordan

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