Mark Wigdal, Thoreau Elementary
DSA Award Recipient — Custodial/Building Services

Do you need a rain garden, or replacement parts to fix old desks? Maybe some picnic tables in the outdoor classroom? Custodian Mark Wigdal does it all.

He thoroughly enjoys his work and his family at Thoreau Elementary School. You can see it in the special touches he adds to everyday things; a peace sign in the snow, or a bulletin board with Wisconsin artifacts.

Mark balances a serious work ethic with a lighthearted approach to life. As an active participant in staff meetings and trainings, Mark puts his learning into action forming positive relationships with students, staff and PTO members.

He can engage the minds of children stuck inside for recess as easily and capably as he fixes a leaky roof. In the course of attending to a mountain of work orders, you might catch him repairing a toy, getting a jacket zipper unstuck or adapting a paper towel holder to accommodate a student with special needs.

From Mark's perspective a building is only as healthy and happy as the people who work and learn within its walls. Mr. Mark is everyone's source for good advice, a smile to cheer up the weary and a strong hand to help.

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