The Wisconsin Association of School Business Officials (WASBO) has selected Jeff Grunwald, Head Custodian/Maintenance, of the Swallow School District, as the recipient of one of four 2020 WASBO Custodian/Maintenance Professional of the Year awards. Grunwald is the recipient from the Southeast Region of Wisconsin. He will be officially recognized at the 2021 Facilities Management Conference on March 2-3, 2021, in the Wisconsin Dells.
This award acknowledges the outstanding contributions of those who are making a difference in their local school district, community and the custodial and maintenance profession. Grunwald — who was nominated by Jeremy Struss, Director of Business Services, Swallow School District — is being recognized for his compassion, leadership and ability to go above and beyond for his district. After approximately 30 years with the district, Grunwald is described as being “a beloved fixture in the Swallow community.” In addition to his standard maintenance duties, A standard day for Grunwald often includes traffic control, cafeteria service, detective work, conflict mediation, and serving as the grill master for staff cookouts. He also is in the midst of his third large-scale construction project in the district, of which Grunwald provides vital and historical knowledge that’s all but impossible to replace. Above all else, he strives to make personal connections with staff, students and their families. He’s even a local hero who — after witnessing an accident in front of the school — climbed inside the window of an upside-down car and helped control the scene until first responders could arrive, risking his own life to make sure others stayed safe.
“It may sometimes seem as if Jeff has 50 bosses, with every member of our staff needing different things at the same time,” his nomination letter states. “Jeff has a way of making everyone feel that their needs are a priority even when they probably shouldn’t be. He strives to keep our entire staff happy and somehow, he does.”
Grunwald will be awarded a complimentary registration to the 2021 Facilities Management Conference.
WASBO provides professional development for school business staff, fosters a network of support, and advocates for funding that ensures outstanding educational opportunities for all children in Wisconsin.