INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Clive Washington, Citrus Elementary School

Clive Washington is the custodian crew leader at Citrus Elementary School. His duties include making sure the school is clean and comfortable for the students and staff.

“Mr. Clive works hard to not only keep our school clean, but safe as well,” principal Mary Clark said. “He truly cares about our staff, students and school community and takes pride in his work at Citrus Elementary School.”

What brought you to your school?

My uncle was a custodian at the time I was seeking a job, and he recommended that I apply for a position with OCPS.

What do you love most about your school?

I have worked at the high school and middle school level but found it difficult to make connections with the students. When I moved to the elementary school level, I loved working with the students and how respectful they were.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I find it most rewarding when someone tells me that things are looking good and thanks me for my work.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?

If I were not a school custodian I would want to build cabinets. Building cabinets is my passion!

Who influences you?

My uncle and some of his coworkers influence me because they have all been custodians for many years.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

My favorite teacher when I was in school was my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Joyce. I remember her telling me that she was not letting me go home one day until I learned how to spell my name. She is up in age now, but I still visit her when I am in her town.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

My favorite children’s book was called “The Old Sea Dog.” It was my favorite because it has lots of short stories and poems.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time I enjoy building cabinets. I build cabinets before and after work, not for money, but for the beauty of it. I really enjoy sending pictures of the cabinets that I build to my family and friends.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

If I could dine with any famous person, I would dine with Mike Tyson. I would love to ask him what goes through his mind when he is in the boxing ring.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

If I could have any superpower, I would have the powers of Super Man! I would love to travel around the world without an airplane.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

If I could only listen to three artists I would listen to Kenny Rogers, Frank Sinatra and Sam Davis.

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?

My go-to snack as an elementary student was banana chips.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving because of all the food.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

When I was in school my best friends were my cousins. We were all the same ages, and we started kindergarten together and went all the way through high school together. We have not seen each other for more than 20 years, but we still text each other.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

As a student, I tried all of the extracurricular activities available but wasn’t very good at them.