Students often focus on classes, assignments, and extracurricular activities, but much of what makes Piscataway High School a supportive learning environment happens behind the scenes. Custodial staff and security guards play an essential role in maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming space for students each day. Although their work may not always be visible, their impact is felt throughout the school community.
Garfield Clark, a custodian at PHS, shared that his motivation comes from wanting to create a positive environment for students. “I like doing things for the kids and making sure they have a nice surrounding,” Clark said. Having a personal connection to the school community, Clark explained that his own children grew up attending Piscataway schools, which makes his role especially meaningful. “It’s a great opportunity for kids to grow and elevate,” he said.
Clark described one of the most rewarding parts of his work as seeing students happy and comfortable in their learning environment. He expressed pride in contributing to a space where students can focus on their education and feel supported. Getting “a smile from students” and helping maintain a clean environment are simple but meaningful ways he supports the school community each day.
Security guard Yvonne Good also emphasized the importance of her role in supporting students. A typical day involves maintaining safety while also building positive relationships with students throughout the school. Good noted that one thing students may not realize is that many safety officers come from prior law enforcement backgrounds, bringing experience and dedication to their role.
Even though there are challenges, Good shared that interacting with students is one of the most rewarding parts of her job. “Some of the students make me laugh,” she said, highlighting the connections she forms throughout the school day. She explained that maintaining a safe environment allows students to focus on learning and participate in school activities with confidence.
Students are beginning to recognize the impact of these roles as well. Kai Harell, a PHS student, shared that learning more about custodial staff and security guards helped him better understand their importance in the school community. “They help take care of the students and make sure everything runs smoothly,” Harell said. “I didn’t realize how much they do behind the scenes, but it makes a huge difference.”
Although students may not always see the work happening behind the scenes, custodians and security staff contribute greatly to creating a positive learning environment. Their dedication helps make sure that classrooms remain clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone.
Showing appreciation can be simple but meaningful. Small actions such as saying thank you, showing respect, and helping keep shared spaces clean can make a major impact. Recognizing the efforts of those who work behind the scenes strengthens the sense of community at Piscataway High School and shows the importance of every role in supporting student success.
