Lead Custodian Terrie Skolnick: A Guiding Light at Lincoln Elementary

At Lincoln Elementary School in Loveland, Colorado, Terrie Skolnick serves as a pivotal force in the community, transcending her role as the lead custodian to become a mentor and guide for students. Known affectionately as “Ms. Terrie,” Skolnick is recognized for her unique ability to anticipate the needs of the school, often before the rest of the staff even considers them. Her dedication has helped foster a nurturing environment where students feel valued and supported.

Building Connections Through Mentorship

According to Principal Brandi Scott, Skolnick’s contributions extend well beyond the responsibilities typically associated with custodial work. She manages a night team, collaborates closely with Scott on school safety matters, and actively participates in promoting school spirit, even donning the school mascot costume.

Skolnick’s journey into this leadership role is marked by her deep personal connection to the school. A former student herself, she later sent her son to Lincoln Elementary, solidifying her bond with the institution. For Skolnick, the school is more than just a workplace; it is her second family. “Keeping our youth safe and helping them understand the world is so important to me,” she stated. “I want to be a part of their lives, whether through cleaning or mentoring.”

Her approach to mentorship is both compassionate and hands-on. “Being a mentor means being there for our youth, listening to them, and making time for them,” Skolnick explained. She emphasizes the importance of dropping everything to support a student in need, a principle that resonates throughout the school.

A Vital Role in Student Development

Scott highlights Skolnick’s ability to manage challenging behaviors among students, providing guidance during lunch and ensuring that they learn respect for one another. “Her job is as important, if not more, than mine,” Scott remarked. “This school doesn’t run if she’s not here. You can run without the principal, but you can’t run without the lead custodian.”

Through her interactions with students, Skolnick aims to impart a crucial message: “It doesn’t matter what you do for a job; you are valuable and important.” This philosophy underpins her daily interactions and has a lasting impact on the students she mentors. Scott noted that after spending time with Skolnick, students often emerge calmer and more respectful, showcasing the transformative power of her mentorship.

Skolnick’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment is emblematic of the unsung heroes within the educational system, whose efforts often go unnoticed. Her story illustrates the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have on the lives of students, shaping not just their education but their character and future.