October 2, 2024 -- At Arts IMPACT Middle School (AIMS), everyone knows "Mr. Joe." It's the name on everyone's lips—students, teachers, and staff alike—as he strides down the halls, keenly inspecting every nook and cranny to ensure everything runs like clockwork.
“Mr. Joe” is Joe Taylor, the head custodian at AIMS where he has served for nine years. His tenure with Columbus City Schools (CCS) began 26 years ago when he was hired as a custodian at Beatty Park Elementary School. From there, he worked at Valleyview Elementary School, Brookhaven High School, Johnson Park Middle School, and Dana Avenue Elementary School prior to AIMS.
“If the teachers have any problems, I am more than happy to help,” Taylor said. “I make it my duty to please [the AIMS staff].”
That duty begins every school day at 5:45 a.m. when Taylor arrives at AIMS and turns on the lights. He then sweeps and mops the gym. Next, he puts the flag on the pole prior to opening the doors.
From that point on, the day can vary. Sometimes he shows new substitute teachers around. Other times a teacher or administrator may need assistance with a door or moving furniture. It is then time to make sure the students threw away all their trash in the cafeteria after breakfast. From there, he visits the multiple bathrooms checking for toilet tissue discarded on floors or plumbing issues in toilets and sinks.
“I just try to keep the building up to par,” Taylor said.
Yet, Taylor’s job extends beyond cleaning and maintenance. He acknowledges that student impact is also an important part of his role. Having taken Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) training, Taylor incorporates those practices when interacting with students. As someone who often sees the students outside the classroom, he guides them whenever possible.
“I just try to get them to do the right thing,” Taylor said.
Taylor’s relentless work ethic impresses his school community. AIMS principal Erica Dodson praised Taylor as the best custodian she’s worked with in 26 years of education. She has personally witnessed Taylor's dedication, often seeing him run just to change a trash bag when needed. She credits him for the spotless appearance of her school.
“Everyone loves Mr. Joe,” Dodson said.
On this National Custodian Day, CCS thanks Joe Taylor and all our custodians who keep our buildings and grounds clean and safe to educate our scholars.
