For 30-years, Claudene Wilson was the beloved custodian of a Swedeborg, Missouri elementary school.

But shortly after she retired, last August, she was stunned to see the school board had renamed a primary building, the "Claudene Wilson Learning Center," to honor her.

Why?

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For her extraordinary work.

Claudene Wilson Learning Center. Photo: today.com

Not only did she clean the facilities, but every morning as the kids arrived, she warmly greeted each of them by name.

And throughout the day, made herself available to listen to their problems, and offer them advice.

"I'm here to help them, get them to grow and get them ready for the outside world," Claudene told The Washington Post.

And the students are grateful.

"She is always there whenever we need her," said 8th grader Blake Mitschele to The Post. "She does so much. She is always kind to everybody."

Photo: cbs.com

And the staff appreciates her as well.

"She has given so much to the school, said assistant administrator Mark Sasfy.

"She has made it such a priority in her life for the past 30 years. That's her, that's who Claudene is, and we've been blessed to have her."

Over the years, Claudene redefined her job.

She would sometimes drive the school bus (the kids call her a "bustodian"), fix the plumbing and make other repairs, cut the lawn, at times answer phones, and do lunch duty.

Claudene Wilson driving the school bus. Photo: today.com

And occasionally as a special surprise, she bought everyone ice cream.

"Whatever I could do, I did," said Claudene, a widowed mother with a son.

Dear Reader: Perhaps there is someone from your childhood you remember fondly because they cared about you. To many students at this elementary school, that is Claudene.

Editor's Note: To learn more cbsnews.com/news/missouri-swedeborg-elementary-school-names-building-after-custodian-claudene-wilson/ and washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2024/10/30/custodian-wilson-tribute-missouri-school/.

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