SANDRA PEÑA EMERSON
Head Custodian
John E. Flynn, A Marzano Academy
When Don Ciancio offered Sandra the Head Custodian position at John E. Flynn, A Marzano Academy, Sandra made him a promise, “I’m going to clean this school like I would my own home.”
After having worked in construction and food service, one of the perks of the job for Sandra is the interaction with the children. “I love the children, and they love me- they might bring me a candy or even a soda!” Like most kids, they may need an occasional reminder to pick up a piece of trash, but they know what needs to be done to keep the school clean. “I love that!” says Sandra, “We help each other and they motivate me. I would have loved to have lots of children, but I only have one.”
With her positive attitude and strong work ethic, Sandra is certainly making an impact at Flynn. “I know I don’t have a profession or a degree, but this is a dignified job that I do and I feel proud.”
Years in WPS: 6 years
Favorite Food: My favorite American food is a cheeseburger with french fries, and my favorite food from El Salvador is arroz y frijoles (rice and beans.)
Favorite quote or mantra: You always need to keep God in your heart and in your mind. Never close the door to anyone- if someone comes to your door asking for help, you open the door.
Favorite Athlete/Sports Team: I’m going to say Kansas City Chiefs. My husband loves Kansas City, and we are not even allowed to wear orange in the house! We all have Kansas uniforms.
What are your hobbies: Cleaning! I always see something to clean - my husband and daughter tease me about it. I also love gardening in the yard and taking care of my beautiful flowers.
What I am listening to right now: All kinds of music! My husband listens to country all the time. Before, I didn’t understand the words, but now I love it. I love Cumbia- in El Salvador we are “Cumbieros.” I like Reggaetón, and I love music from Mexico like “Los Tucanes.”
Superpower I wish I had: I would like to be able to help people. Right now with the fires in California- I want to make it snow, or rain. Why would I want to be able to fly or disappear? If you’re going to have a superpower it should be to help people, to help the world. Not just something for yourself.
If I could make the world a better place in one way: To make the world a better place, we need to plant more trees. The ozone layer is being destroyed, and it’s our fault. We have to take care of nature, even the smallest animals, even the ant.
What has Westminster Public Schools meant to you? For me, Westminster Public Schools has given me everything. When I started working here I wanted to be with my family in a house, but I couldn’t qualify for a mortgage for a home. Working for WPS has given us everything- our home, the food on our table. WPS is everything to me!
What do you like about working at Flynn? The teachers here are wonderful because we have great communication. It’s like teamwork– the Principal sets the example for the teachers and for the students. For example, last Tuesday when we had all that snow, I didn’t have time to set up the lunch room. I had to shovel snow all day- it just kept coming. It’s important to keep the walkways clear for everyone’s safety and I lost track of time. When I realized what time it was, the assistant principal and the teachers had already set up the lunchroom for the kids. I was so grateful to them for helping me and they were grateful for me shoveling the snow. It was a beautiful experience! I really, really, really like this school!
Who inspires me in WPS (staff, parent, or student): Everyone inspires me! I love the way Don Ciancio takes care of us custodians. He has opened the door for us. He pays attention to who works hard and who doesn’t, and he will open the doors for you if you work hard. Nick McCoy has helped me a lot as well with whatever I’ve needed. When I worked at Shaw Heights, I met Gabe Trujillo and he was very kind to me. I appreciate all of them! They’ve given me the opportunity to advance and grow. That’s what I like about the district- they try to help you in whatever you need. It’s beautiful. I feel proud to work for this district, because when they see a need, they provide options. I never come to work mad- I’m always happy to come to work here!