Boston Janitor Finds Purpose as Daughter Inspires Students

In a heartwarming story from Boston, James Corrao, a janitor at the Worcester Public Schools, has found renewed purpose through his daughter, Annabelle Corrao. Annabelle, now 21, recently returned to the same school where her father works to lead floral-arranging lessons for students, showcasing the powerful bond between them.

Corrao’s journey to this moment began when he was just 19 years old. Following the tragic overdose of his father when he was nine, he struggled with his own path. His life took a turn when he learned that his girlfriend was pregnant. “I knew if I didn’t stop then, I wasn’t going to make it,” Corrao shared with TODAY.com. Determined to be a reliable father, he made the decision to get sober and change his life.

A Newfound Purpose

In 2004, shortly before Annabelle’s birth, Corrao took a position as a janitor in the Worcester Public Schools. Initially viewing it as a stable job, he soon discovered a deeper sense of purpose. Children greeted him with enthusiasm, calling out “Mr. James!” in the hallways. This interaction not only boosted his confidence but also solidified his belief that he could make a difference in their lives.

“I started to wear my job as a badge of honor,” Corrao remarked. He found joy in the small tasks, from unlocking the school at 6 a.m. to ensuring classrooms were tidy. In time, he embraced his role, proud to contribute to the learning environment.

Years later, a position opened at the school where Annabelle was in 4th grade. The opportunity to see her daily was a gift he eagerly accepted. He would leave notes in her desk while tidying up, a small gesture that showcased his love and commitment to her.

Generational Inspiration

This past November 2023, Annabelle returned to the same school, now as an instructor. Having found her passion as a florist, she was invited to lead floral-arranging workshops for students. Annabelle expressed gratitude for her father’s influence, stating, “My dad is the one who inspired me to chase my dream.”

A recent Instagram video shared by Corrao captured a moment of joy as Annabelle guided a group of second graders through creating Thanksgiving centerpieces. In a light-hearted exchange, Corrao humorously asked if the children could eat the flowers, prompting laughter and cheers from the young students, who fondly recognized him as “Mr. James.”

“It was surreal,” Corrao reflected on watching his daughter teach. “I was in awe.” He also noted her maturity, jokingly questioning how she had surpassed him in that regard.

In addition to his custodial work, Corrao has embraced a new venture as a stand-up comedian, inspired by Annabelle’s encouragement. He initially approached TikTok with skepticism, thinking it was merely a platform for teenagers to dance. Now, he finds joy in sharing his humor and experiences.

Annabelle takes pride in her father’s dual career. “The kids get so excited to see him,” she said, recalling how her classmates would react with enthusiasm when she mentioned her father’s role in the school. “When I was teaching, I told the class, ‘You know the guy who picks up the trash? That’s my dad.’ And they all started freaking out, screaming, ‘Mr. James!’”

The story of James and Annabelle Corrao illustrates the profound impact of family, purpose, and community. Their journey, rooted in resilience and inspiration, highlights how connections can foster growth and motivate others in unexpected ways.