My Turn: Roy Jackson

I started out at Snow Hill Elementary in 1998 as a custodian and two years later began working at Pocomoke Elementary where I am the building supervisor/head custodian today.

The best part of my job is getting to know students and helping them whenever and however I can. Many of them come from families where there is no father in the home so, at times, I’m a father figure to them. It’s good for them to know that someone cares.

I mentor many of the boys and remind them to take school seriously. There are times when a teacher will call me to sit with some of those students or take them outside and help them calm down. And often, I’ll invite them to help me with my work. We have some of our best talks then.

I mentor many of the boys and remind them to take school seriously. There are times when a teacher will call me to sit with some of those students or take them outside and help them calm down. And often, I’ll invite them to help me with my work. We have some of our best talks then.

Sometimes I buy lunch for students if their money is low or help them pay for a field trip. I do what I can to help — children shouldn’t have to be hungry or feel left out. The children leave me notes, draw pictures for me, and shout my name to greet me every morning. When I see children leave school with a smile on their faces, that is a good day for me.

Helping people is a big part of who I am. I’ve been a volunteer firefighter for 20 years. I’ve seen a lot of tragedy and have been able to help in many challenging situations. You don’t see many happy endings when you are out there responding to people in distress, but I like being able to make a difference when I can.

I’m also committed to helping my co-workers. I became active with our union, the Worcester County Education Support Personnel Association, when I was asked to take over as building rep. Since then, it’s been my mission to make sure we have 100% membership in our building and we are close to getting there! I want to make sure support staff know their rights and that everyone is treated fairly.

I’m motivated by my love for people, especially my family. I raised my three children to know that education is the ticket to doors opening and I’m so proud that each of them are doing well. At the end of the day, I want my 5-year-old granddaughter Ma’leiah to look at her grandfather and see a man who loves to help others and encourages others to do the same.