In this Staff Spotlight, we want to shine the light on a role that is one of the most unsung heroes within any school—custodian. These team members play an essential part in maintaining a safe, clean and welcoming environment for students and staff. Andy Stout, Building Manager at Prairie Winds Elementary School, works hard behind the scenes to help create a positive environment for learning and to foster a sense of pride in his school community. The D38 Communications Team recently spoke with Stout to learn more about him and his time in the district.
How long have you served in D38?
I started at Palmer Ridge High School in March 2020, two weeks before the shutdown for COVID-19. It was definitely an unusual and chaotic time to start a new job, but D38 was so incredibly kind and thoughtful during that transition. I will never forget that generosity.
What brought you to Prairie Winds?
At the time, I was working nights at Palmer Ridge with an amazing crew, led by an incredible boss, Eric Wall. Working nights gave me the opportunity to get to know the coaches and a lot of the players. I really wanted to support them, but my work schedule often conflicted with their games. That’s when I started looking for a daytime job and the position at PWES came up. I was so honored to be offered the position.
What is your favorite part of working at PWES? Do you have a favorite memory from your time there?
My favorite part is probably getting to help the students at lunch with my amazing teammate, Stephanie Hoverston. As for my favorite memory, I’ve got a few. The first was when PWES principal Alicia Welch was leaving. There was so much love and gratitude shown towards her on her final goodbye.
Every year, we have a 100 Days of School celebration. Students and staff all try to dress up like 100-year-olds. One year a very honest first grade student told me, “Mr. Stout, you don’t have to dress up.” Working with kids is incredibly entertaining (and humbling).
Have there been moments when a student or staff member has brightened your day or inspired you?
I tell parents and visitors all the time that I am so impressed by these children every day. Whether it’s the Chess Club beating middle school teams, or our fifth grade Composteers bringing home a Presidential award for their work composting all the lunchroom waste, the students at PWES are bright, ambitious and compassionate. The most inspiring thing, though, is when a student is going through a bad time, multiple students drop everything to help and comfort them.
You had a lot of amazing things said about you in our Staff Stars social media campaign last November. How do you build such strong connections with the students and staff?
Caring. The staff at PWES truly and honestly cares about each of the students and each other. If you want to make a positive impact in your community, or are new to working at a school and want to build connections, give your all to them, and it will return to you exponentially.
We’ve heard you’re a big supporter of your grandkids, who are students in D38, and your daughter, who is a teacher at Palmer Ridge. What is it like being so connected to the schools, both personally and professionally?
My daughter is an absolute force. When she sets a goal, she sees it through. She was actually the one who helped me get my foot in the door with the district. My wife, Lisa Stout, has also found her niche working in Transition Services. It’s truly a blessing to be able to see my grandsons every day. Having worked in the district, I can confidently say that, because of D38, their futures are bright.
When you reflect on your time with D38, what makes you the most proud?
I see what outsiders don’t. I see teachers giving all they have to their students. I see the love and appreciation from the students when their teacher passes by. I see the very tall fathers bending way, way down to give their little girls a goodbye hug at drop off. Our PTO continually showers the staff with food, decorations and love. When our school flooded, all the district custodians came to our rescue, even bringing their own equipment. Thanks to their near superhuman efforts, they got it all cleaned up. There are so many superstars that make this district incredible, and I am so happy and grateful to be part of it.