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Thomas Mueller, head custodian at Palisade Preparatory School received the award from Yonkers Schools Superintendent Bernard Pierorazio at Wednesday's board of education meeting.
"The description of Tom doesn't do him justice for all his hard work through the years," Pierorazio said. "He's been with us for many years, and the buildings have all been spotless since the day he arrived. We're all just so proud of his accomplishments, and not only how he leads but also how he works alongside others. It's the sign of a true leader."
The Yonkers City School District first hired Mueller as a custodian at Lincoln High School in 1992. He then moved to School 22 and was then promoted in 2001 and again in 2003 because of his tireless work ethic, Pierorazio said.
Mueller was born and raised in Yonkers. He graduated from Gorton High School in 1991, and now lives in Yonkers with his two children and wife, Sheila, who is also a Yonkers Public Schools employee.
"I'm truly grateful to have such a great job for all these years," he said. "Yonkers has been good to me through the years. I grew up here, went to school here, work here and now have kids of my own. I'm honored to be recognized by my school, and I'm so glad to be here with my family."
Palisade Prep Principal Michelle Yazurlo said Mueller's nomination came from countless employees at the school.
"When we chose to nominate Thomas we received an outpouring of love at the school," Yazurlo said. "There's not a day that goes by that someone doesn't praise his hard work. He comes to work early with a smile and is always willing to go above and beyond. He is seriously a great part of our school and is an even better person to have in our lives."
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