Outstanding Curb Appeal Award

Theresa Dardanell Because first impressions are important, Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) encourages all schools to demonstrate “curb appeal”—a clean, well-maintained and welcoming appearance. This year, Thurmont Elementary School (TES) and Thurmont Middle School (TMS) earned an award for “Outstanding Curb Appeal.”  Although maintenance of the interior of the buildings is just as important, the focus of this award is the exterior: what students and parents see when they first arrive at school. Award criteria included maintenance of grass, trees, bushes and flowerbeds; condition of the building, fences, walkways, curbs, and parking lots; playgrounds that are ready for the students; and signs updated with current information.  Vince Bentz, lead custodian at TMS, and Brenda Martins, lead custodian at TES, both said that teamwork is essential and that everyone on their crew works well together.  They work very hard, not just during the summer, but all year long. John Carnahan, FCPS custodial services manager, said “…TES and TMS are examples of the awesome things that our teams do each and every day in support of students, staff, and their communities.” Thurmont Middle School Pictured from left: Paul Lebo (FCPS Central Office), John Carnahan (FCPS Central Office), Mike Frushour (Custodian), Cindy Frock (Custodian), Richard White (Custodian), Gayle Smith (Custodian), Vince Bentz (Lead Custodian), Anita Shank (Assistant Principal), and Daniel Enck (Principal). Missing from photo: Robert Welsh (Assistant Lead Custodian) and Dan VanFossen (Custodian). Courtesy Photo Thurmont Elementary School Pictured from left: Custodian Matt Claggett, Principal Christina McKeever, Custodian Susie Cool, Lead Custodian Brenda Martins, and Custodian Wanda Frye. Photo by Theresa Dardanell