Leading with Positivity: DeSoto High School Custodial Supervisor Wins Local SSC Employee of the Year Award
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DeSoto High School’s morning custodial supervisor, Jackqueline Dillon, is the 2020 Employee of the year for DeSoto SSC Services for Education.
Ms.Dillon has been with DeSoto High school for about a year and was selected for her willingness to serve the school community during the pandemic; her good work ethic; and her positive attitude.
“As a first responder, she puts the health of the staff and students before her own. Mrs. Dillon always has a smile and is willing to help anyone regardless of her job duties,” said Larry Boykin, DeSoto SSC custodial director. “Mrs. Dillon has worked every day during the pandemic leading her team with a positive attitude.”
Dillon was truly surprised to receive this award for doing what she enjoys.
“My goal is to just keep everyone here safe and comfortable in their environment,’ said Dillon. “It is a feeling of accomplishment when the daily routine is done, the school is clean, everything is taken care of and everyone is happy, that is a good day for me!”
Dillion came to DeSoto from the healthcare services industry and enjoys the warm environment at DeSoto High School. While she meets her workplace goals, she appreciates her chances to do even the smallest acts to support others.
“Most recently, I was asked by students to help them find their classes. The fact they are comfortable approaching me to ask for help feels good.”
She also noted the heartwarming moment that a DHS student recognized her on the campus and said they were hoping she was okay during the pandemic and had been praying for her safety.
DeSoto ISD Director of Athletics Larry Davis is proud of the work that Dillon is doing in his department.
“We were blessed to get Ms. Dillon at a critical juncture – the beginning of COVID. At that time, she had not worked with an athletic program before but was incredibly eager to learn,” Davis said. She has proven to be extremely responsive to our needs and pays great attention to detail. She truly cares about what she is doing and why.”
Dillon, who now oversees the custodial employees across the entire DHS campus, including the athletic facilities, began working for the district as a campus team leader about a year ago. She was soon promoted to the role of a campus supervisor.
“I credit my supervisor, Jimmy Lister, for teaching me so many things. I could not have asked for a better leader. I came here with a good work ethic, but he has really expanded my knowledge.”
Asked about the source of her positivity, she remarked, “It is just who I am. I just want everyone to take care of themselves and others and enjoy life.”
When she is not at work, she is finding joy in her hobbies, cooking and working out. “I love to cook,” said Dillon. “It gives me good vibes and working out helps me to stay strong.”
Desoto SSC gave Dillon a certificate and a gift card as a part of her recognition as an employee of the year. SSC Services for Education provides the custodial services for most of the facilities in DeSoto ISD.