CKARENCE, NY - In schools all across this country, it's often the custodian who's the first to arrive and the last to leave every day.
And that's why we're celebrating Western New York with a local custodian who goes above and beyond on the job.
The Cintas Corporation is holding their fifth annual Janitor of the Year contest, and of the more than 3,000 nominations around the country, one of the 10 finalists is from right here in Western New York.
He's none other than Mister Z, from Harris Hill Elementary School.
For Mark Zaidel, his days can start as early as 4 a.m., but he says, "My biggest thing, what I'm really concerned about, is the safety of the kids."
That attitude is what prompted some parents, along with the Principal of Harris Hill Elementary School in Clarence, to nominate Mister Z for the Cintas Corporation's Janitor of the Year honor.
"We thought this is perfect, because he is an exemplary janitor as well as just a good person. We also have a Harris Hill Heroes Program which is focused on character education, and this year's theme is respect. And he is the role model for our students of respect," said Principal Peg Aldrich.
That respect comes with a sense of humor. After eighteen years in the airline industry, and thirteen at Harris Hill, Mark Zaidel won't hesitate to put on a silly hat if he thinks it will help the kids.
Voting for the Janitor of the year runs until April 20, with the winner receiving $5,000, and the school getting $5,000 in cleaning supplies.
As for Mister Z, he's a winner no matter how the vote goes.