As students walk in the hallways of FCHS in the afternoon, particularly on the 4th floor, they’re bound to come across custodian Robert Bryant. Bryant was born and raised in Fluvanna and graduated from FCHS in 1980. Bryant has dedicated 27 years of his life to being a janitor in Fluvanna, first at Lake Monticello, and then at Fluvanna County Public Schools. His son, Robert Hill, runs ISS at the school, while his other son graduated from FCHS last year.

When Bryant cleans classrooms and hallways, he says he prioritizes making sure that everything is spotless and clean. However, he notes that students can make his job difficult by not being mindful of picking up behind themselves.

“I wish the students who create messes at this school could be better at picking up trash from their surroundings, but other than that, I love what I do,” said Bryant.

Not only does Bryant clean the school, but he also said he loves having conversations with students, staff, and visitors to get to know them better.

“He’s always nice towards all the students, and he brings good vibes and energy to the school,” said freshman Jeremiah White.

“He doesn’t just clean our floors, he elevates our spirits and brightens our halls,” said junior Giovanni Pankau.

As a janitor, you don’t know what the aftermath of the school day may look like. Sometimes it can be clean, and sometimes it can be a catastrophe. So, why does Bryant keep coming back every day?

“The respect I receive from staff and students here–they make my job fun and enjoyable,” he said.

Bryant said that his plan is to retire from his position as a janitor in another year or so. He plans on just relaxing after his retirement and focusing on his hobby of restoring old cars and driving his “old school” Cadillac around Palmyra.