Swedeborg, Missouri Honors Beloved Custodian with New School Building Name
In the small town of Swedeborg, Missouri, residents have made a heartfelt decision to name the primary building at the Swedeborg District III Elementary School after a remarkable individual. Earlier this year, the community chose to honor 64-year-old Claudene Wilson, the school’s longtime custodian, in recognition of her dedication and contributions over the past thirty years.
A Community Decision
The decision was made during a meeting of the Swedeborg School Board on August 26, where board members voted unanimously to name the building the Claudene Wilson Learning Center. Students and community members knew that the name had to reflect someone truly special, and Wilson fit the bill perfectly. Student Nate Lein expressed it well, saying, “It has to be someone that you just know would be right.”
Wilson’s Dedication Shines Bright
Claudene Wilson has been the heart and soul of Swedeborg District III Elementary. Throughout her tenure, she has taken on numerous roles aside from her primary duties as a custodian. She welcomes students as they arrive each day, assists with transportation coordination, oversees lunch duty, maintains landscaping, and keeps the facilities running smoothly. Wilson described her typical workday, explaining, “And the next thing I know, I was leaving at six in the morning and getting home about 7:30 at night.”
When asked about her motivation, Wilson said simply, “Kids, the kids are at your heart.” Her commitment to the students has not gone unnoticed. As Chuck Boren, the president of the Swedeborg School Board, pointed out, children often turn to her first when they aren’t feeling well or facing a tough day. “If they had a bad night, they go to her. And she’s there for each and every one of them,” Boren said.
A Humble Honoree
A Different Kind of Greatness
In the United States, many institutions are typically named after famous figures who achieved significant accolades throughout history. However, the residents of Swedeborg see greatness in different forms. Instead of choosing a well-known national figure or a famous Missourian, they highlighted the qualities of a local hero who has made an everyday impact on their children’s lives. Student Eli Huff noted how much it means to their community that their school building honors someone who embodies dedication and love for the students.
Another student, Alex Lein, echoed this sentiment, stating, “That’s what everybody should want to be, you know. That’s what I would want to be.” This highlights the inspiration Wilson brings to those around her, encouraging students to strive for the same level of dedication in their own lives.
The Legacy of Claudene Wilson
The new Claudene Wilson Learning Center serves as a reminder of the powerful impact that one person can have on a community and its students. As Claudene continues to fulfill her role, she will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy of compassion, care, and commitment within the walls of the school. In a world where iconic names often dominate, the residents of Swedeborg have shown that true greatness can be recognized in the selfless service of an everyday hero.
