Thursday, October 2, is National Custodian Appreciation Day. Thanks to our custodial team, we all have a clean, safe place to learn, teach, and work. One of our amazing custodial employees is Liliana Alfaro, building supervisor at Robinson Secondary School. 

“Liliana’s positive energy and enthusiasm are contagious,” says Principal Tracey Philips. “She has quickly become an essential part of our school, leading her team (24 custodians) with a smile and a true dedication to supporting students, staff, and our community.”

Last school year, while working as building supervisor at Falls Church High School, Liliana was named Outstanding School-Based Operational Employee.  

“Falls Church High School is a better place because of Ms. Alfaro,” Principal Ben Nowak says about the building supervisor at Falls Church High School. He praised Liliana Alfaro’s leadership, dedication, expertise, and genuine care for her team and school community in her Honors submission.

Liliana had not only excelled in her position under normal circumstances, but she had also consistently gone above and beyond to ensure a safe, clean, and welcoming environment at Falls Church High School, despite the ongoing challenges of renovation and daily school operations.

One teacher calculated that Liliana and her team cleared approximately 366 tons of snow from the parking lot during a snow event in January. “That would make a snowball 68 feet in diameter. Grateful for their efforts during these tundra-like times!”

She led a team from diverse backgrounds, fostering a culture of teamwork, professionalism, and mutual support. 

“Her leadership extends far beyond logistical coordination — she genuinely cares for her team, assisting them with personal matters such as navigating healthcare appointments and ensuring their well-being,” Nowak says. “Her team members know they can rely on her, and that trust translates into a highly motivated and cohesive unit that plays a critical role in the success of our school.”

“Beyond her technical expertise, Ms. Alfaro is a highly effective communicator and team leader,” remarked Peter Lake, assistant principal at Falls Church. “She has a knack for building strong relationships with staff, our design and construction team, and the wider community. She is adept at resolving conflicts, motivating her team, and fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.”

Liliana began working as an acting supervisor in 2018. She has worked as a building supervisor at Great Falls Elementary School, Poe Middle School, and Falls Church High School before coming to Robinson this year.