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District honors custodian as ESP of the month as residents warn outsourcing left gym access and community programs strained
Summary
The board recognized Joseph McGrady, a University Park Elementary custodian, as ESP of the Month. Later public testimony described consequences of outsourcing custodial work, including reduced evening staffing, higher facility rental fees for youth sports and lost community access to school gyms.
The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District board on Oct. 7 recognized Joseph McGrady, University Park Elementary custodian, as the district’s ESP (Educational Support Professional) of the month. Students and staff described McGrady’s daily work — clearing sidewalks, maintaining playground safety, helping classrooms and even recovering lost personal items — as the reason for the award.
That honor preceded a string of public comments that tied into custodial operations: several community members told the board that outsourcing custodial services has reduced after‑hours staffing, raised rental fees for youth groups and constrained access to gym space used by local sports organizations.
Why it matters: School gyms and after‑school facilities are widely used by teams and community groups. Changes in…
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