With 44 schools and 55 buildings, Kent School District runs like a small city—and behind the scenes, the Facilities team keeps it all moving! From daily maintenance to major operations, this hardworking crew plays a vital role in making sure every building is safe, functional, and ready for learning. The Facilities team—composed of the Maintenance and Environmental Services departments—is a crucial part of making sure the district operates to its full capacity. From HVAC teams to groundskeepers to custodians, this team maintains buildings and repairs equipment, ensuring that learning can happen at our schools. “Our goal every day is to have the schools ready for the kids,” Director of Facilities Gordon Cook said. “We own what we take care of, and we see the people every day that share in that ownership with us. Teaching and learning are what we’re all here for, but they wouldn’t have the educational opportunities without the buildings that house them.”
Daran Blackwell has worked for the district for over forty years, including 20 of them in the HVAC team, where he is currently the team lead. Working with his team to solve the problems that come up each day as efficiently as possible is what he finds the most rewarding. “One reason why I love my job, is that every day is different,” Daran said. “I love my team. I’m their biggest cheerleader and advocate.” Due to technological advances, much of the work is now done remotely through computer systems. Though they are a relatively small team, they are able to work behind the scenes and solve problems before anyone notices. “We’re on top of things before people even know it,” Daran said.
Sharon Kramer has worked for the district since 2018. She serves as the daytime custodian for the main administration building on the district campus. “I enjoy making the building look good,” Sharon said. “The people are great and very friendly. When visitors come, I try to make them feel welcome and help them with where they’re going.”
With over 200 employees on the team, “We’re a diverse group of workers,” Gordon said, “and it’s rewarding the type of tangible work that we do.” By keeping our buildings operating, the facilities team enables everyone to support the greater mission of KSD: successfully preparing all students for their futures.