Veteran Custodian Reflects on Chaos and Joy of First School Day

The start of the school year marks a significant event for many, but for Mark Glende, an elementary school custodian in Rosemount, Minnesota, this year represents his 30th first day of school. Despite his extensive experience, he admits to feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety every year as students and parents navigate the chaos of the first day.

Glende describes the atmosphere as thrilling yet overwhelming. “The first day of school isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s for the brave, the patient, and the slightly unhinged,” he remarks. The day begins with the sight of children reluctant to leave their parents’ cars and parents who seem equally hesitant to part with their little ones. Kindergarteners arrive with backpacks that appear far too large for their small frames, creating a visual reminiscent of climbers tackling Everest.

As students flood through the doors, the school transforms into a bustling hub of activity. The parking lot becomes congested with cars, while parents capture every moment on their phones, creating a scene that Glende likens to a news event. “It’s a day filled with a mix of tears and laughter, as both staff and students grapple with the emotional weight of new beginnings,” he explains.

Buses often run late, adding to the disorder. Children experience a wide range of emotions, from excitement to anxiety, and some even lock themselves in bathrooms, seeking a moment of solitude in the chaos. Glende finds himself in comedic situations, such as when he must explain to a second grader why a mysterious substance on the floor is not chocolate.

Challenges abound; one memorable incident involved a student who managed to wedge himself into a desk chair, prompting an urgent call for assistance. Glende recalls, “After 20 minutes of careful extraction, the student calmly asked if he could still go to lunch.” This type of resilience and humor highlights the unique nature of elementary school life.

Preparations for the first day are extensive. Throughout the summer, Glende and his team work diligently to ensure the school is ready. They clean carpets, wash walls, and maintain the boilers, all while hoping for a smooth start to the year. “We’ve taken a 50-year-old building that in June was being held together with twine and chicken wire, and somehow, three months later, it looks brand new,” he states with pride.

The physical environment plays a crucial role in creating an atmosphere conducive to learning. Glende mentions that the floors are polished to a shine, making them so reflective that they could distract even the most focused individuals. The effort put into presenting a clean, welcoming space is a testament to the dedication of custodial staff.

As the day unfolds, Glende recognizes the emotional weight of the first day. It is loud, messy, and utterly exhausting, but it is also memorable for the right reasons. “Beginnings are supposed to feel a little unhinged,” he reflects. The first day of school is not just about academic learning; it is a time for building relationships and fostering a sense of community.

With the day winding down, Glende prepares for the inevitable transition to “day two,” a day that lacks the fanfare and excitement of the first. “Nobody ever takes pictures of that,” he quips, reminding us that while the first day captures attention, it is the days that follow where the real learning and growth occur.

As schools around the world prepare for a new academic year, Glende’s insights offer a glimpse into the heart of the educational experience. His reflections remind us that every first day is a unique adventure, filled with challenges and joys that shape the lives of students and staff alike.