ESSEX, Vt. (WCAX) - We all remember the excitement of the first day of school, but few know what it takes to make the magic happen.

Wednesday morning, students will return to Essex High School for another year.

Every detail of their day, from a spotless cafeteria to sparkling floors, was tirelessly prepared just for them. Custodial Supervisor Anthony Smith spreads a layer of wax across a hallway at Essex High School.

In a few days, it’ll be the shiny backdrop for a brand new year.

“There isn’t a custodian out there that doesn’t feel a sense of pride in their work,” said Smith.

Roughly 160 custodians, electricians, plumbers, and other maintenance staff give buildings in the Essex Westford School District a little TLC during the summer.

They patch up roofs, mow lawns, assemble furnitur

See Full Page