Unsung hero during pandemic, Bricker Elementary custodian finalist in Custodian of the Year contest

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- Ilka Jenkins, a custodian at Bricker Elementary School, is a finalist in the 2022 Custodian of the Year contest. The contest, sponsored by Cintas Corporation, recognizes all the dedicated and hard-working custodians. 

Jenkins is one of two women selected as a finalist in the National 2022 Custodian of the Year contest. If she wins, Jenkins will receive $10,000 cash, $5,000 in new custodial equipment, and up to $30,000 in advanced training.

She tells KRDO it's important for her to put her best foot forward every day.

"You know they don't have to ask me twice,  three times, I want to make sure they know if you ask me something I am there for you, and it is done, no questions asked," said Jenkins.

It's not easy keeping an elementary school building clean, even more, difficult during the pandemic.

"Instead of basic cleaning we call it, it was everyday deep cleaning, every day you had to wipe down everything and of course, when school is on, you just can't do that, you don't have time," said Jenkins.

During school shut-downs, Jenkins was part of the district's effort to put the children's safety first. Bricker Elementary School principal believes Jenkins is a truly unique and genuine addition to her staff.

"There is not a student or staff member who does not know her name and greet her every day with a hug, she is truly beloved in our community, the parents recognize the efforts that she goes through to support our staff and our school," said Tracy Jarboe, Principal at Bricker Elementary School.

Jenkins says it's a big honor to get national attention for a job she loves.

Online voting is happening right now and runs through April 15. You can vote here.