Staff Spotlight: The pandemic has made Clarke Jeffers’ role even more vital to the district

Clarke Jeffers (aka: “CJ”) fills a vital role in promoting a clean and healthy environment at the Junior/Senior High School—especially during the pandemic. Photo credit: Amy Haggerty.

by Amy Haggerty

A school custodian not only cleans a school, he or she is also a true caretaker and guardian of our children’s safety.

During COVID-19, the job of school custodian has become even more vital with the addition of special duties like disinfecting classrooms, bathrooms, locker rooms, and gyms. They play a critical role in providing the clean, healthy environment that is so important during this pandemic. It’s fair to say, custodians are on the frontlines, working to help contain the spread of the coronavirus.

Clarke Jeffers, referred to by all the staff and students at the Stockbridge Junior/Senior High School as “CJ,” has become a well-known fixture around the building. He has been working for Stockbridge Community Schools since August 2003 and currently works the afternoon shift at the school.

Jeffers grew up in the Milford, Mich. area, where he attended high school. In 2002, he married Karen Hurd, which brought him and his two children to the Stockbridge area. Together, the Jeffers raised a family of five—Caitlin, Clarke, Connor, Bailey, and Mackenzie—ranging in age from 28 to 22. Connor, Bailey, and MacKenzie attended Stockbridge schools. Caitlin and Clarke attended high school in Milford.

Since COVID-19, the job has changed for Jeffers, but he’s proud of the part he plays in adapting to this new environment. “Our disinfecting plan has been very effective. It has even significantly impacted the number of flu virus cases within the district.”

Family time is very important to Jeffers. He credits his parents as being the most influential people in his life. “My parents taught me how to cook and most of all, life lessons.”

He loves to hunt, fish, and cook in his free time.

Jeffers has an excellent work ethic and enjoys working hard. He notes, “I don’t know how to not work. I love my job because I know it is important and necessary.”

As part of this feature, Jeffers is happy for the opportunity to share advice with Stockbridge students. “Remember everything, and apply what you have learned. Be kind and respectful, use your manners, don’t cuss, and do be appreciative.” He firmly believes that if students apply these skills in their lives, they can and will be better people.

Considering the risks associated with the spread of the COVID-19 virus, Jeffers plays a notable role in protecting the health of our students and staff every day. He possesses a professional and courteous demeanor at all times, and he is kind and helpful in every situation.

Stockbridge School District is lucky to have Jeffers as an employee who cares about doing a great job and ensuring the health and safety of our children.