Tony Horton, the head custodian at New Haven Elementary in Boone County, was honored with a Break the Mold award during a school recognition event where colleagues and students praised his 18 years of service and dedication to the school’s roughly 800 students and staff.

School staff and students described Horton as hardworking and personable, noting he juggles multiple jobs — including landscaping and farm work — and often works “13 to 15 hour days” while overseeing a small custodial team. “I’ve always been hard worker. My parents was hard workers,” Horton said, describing the influence of his upbringing.

The recognition highlighted the practical and personal roles Horton plays at the school. Staff members said he helps teachers and handles repairs so classroom toolkits are seldom needed; one staff member recalled asking Horton over the radio about a Sawzall and Horton responding immediately. Students described Horton as ‘‘fun’’ and ‘‘happy’’ and said he spends time with them at lunch and plays games.

Speakers at the event noted Horton’s broader ties to the school community: he has three grandchildren who attend New Haven Elementary, and staff said he helps care for their horses and family property outside of school. Colleagues said his title does not define him and that he ‘‘puts forth extra effort’’ for students and staff alike.

The event conveyed appreciation rather than announcing policy changes or district actions. No formal motions, budget items, or administrative directives were made during the remarks. The presentation focused on honoring Horton’s service and the personal impressions of students and staff.

School officials and participants did not disclose a formal monetary award or new staffing commitments tied to the recognition, and no follow-up actions were recorded in the remarks.

Horton’s remarks and the attendees’ testimonials framed custodial work as central to the daily functioning of the school, and the ceremony underscored the staff and students’ reliance on long-term employees whose work is largely behind the scenes.