Support Professional Appreciation: Brian Aiken

Being a custodian in Glens Falls City Schools means far more than handling a “clean up on aisle 3!” Our custodians keep buildings neat, safe, and healthy every day of the year. They are first responders when a fire alarm goes off, helping to determine the source of the activation—and the remedy—as students and staff evacuate. They prepare for everyday needs of teachers in classrooms, and put out 200 folding chairs in the gymnasium for special events. And they even come in at all hours of the day—whether to clear snow and ice from entryways, or for other reasons…

“How about the time he had to come to school on his day off at 6:30 in the morning, when I set the alarm off,” muses music teacher Geri Teta. “He never appeared upset or annoyed.”

Mrs. Teta is talking about Kensington Elementary School Head Custodian Brian Aiken. He is in charge of: building cleaning, repairs, and upkeep; preparation for all building activities and events; collaboration with vendors to ensure adequate supplies and equipment are available; snow removal; and anything else facility-related that might pop up.

“He approaches everything in a positive manner and works hard to maintain a safe and healthy school environment for students and staff,” says Kensington Road School Principal Jen Hayes. “I have had the pleasure of working with Brian for 13 years now. He remains as professional and dedicated now as he did in year 1. Brain has a wonderful disposition.”

“Having a clean and maintained building provides the students with a good learning environment,” says Mr. Aiken. “Every summer the building must be prepared for changes in classroom sizes or locations,” he continues. “This involves new configuration of rooms and relocation of furniture and supplies depending on the teacher’s needs for their classrooms.”

“We are lucky to have him!” says first-grade teacher Carrie Krogmann. “He is always there to help me out with whatever I need and has a smile on his face!”

Mr. Aiken has stayed close to home in his professional career, having graduated from Glens Falls High School. He started as a custodian at GFHS/MS in 1998, and then transferred to Kensington in 2007. When not being the superhero of the building, he enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with his family.

Glens Falls City School District celebrates national American Education Week by highlighting our “school superheroes” whose various careers touch the lives of our students and pave the way for success. Education Support Professionals—our teacher aides, teaching assistants, secretaries, custodians, and many other team members—play a crucial role in every school building, every day.