”The role of custodians has changed over the past few years with the emergence of the H1N1 virus and the increasing number of students who suffer from allergies, some of which are life-threatening. Hard work and patience is the key to a safe and healthy learning environment.”

Frank Lotito

With the increase in children’s allergies, Frank takes special care preparing the lunch tables before and between the two lunch periods. Tables are cleaned thoroughly so that students with food allergies are not at risk of coming into contact with peanut oil, for example, left from the previous lunch period.

Frank’s outstanding communication skills result in an excellent rapport with students, staff, administration, parents, and the community. This has led to his role as an active participant in the decision-making process.

Frank also involves students in cleaning for health initiatives. He was instrumental in forming the “Scrub Club” that encourages hand-washing through colorful bathroom posters. They encourage students to “Join the Scrub Club!  Stop, Think, Wash.”

He worked with the Yantacaw School Greencycle Club, and with the help of a Nutley commissioner, Frank placed recycling containers in every classroom. Students collect the containers weekly, and Frank ensures that they are set out each week for the town to collect.  Yantacaw was the first school in the township to accomplish this. Working with the PTO, Frank also encourages recycling in the lunchroom.

He is an excellent role model for students as he is involved with the Family Service Bureau and the Student Council food and clothing drives. He inspires the students to keep their school as clean and healthy as their homes.

“The fact that he performs his never-ending tasks without a complaint or even a sigh makes Mr. Lotito a teacher in his own right.  He demonstrates patience, kindness, and a work ethic that all of us should emulate.”

Annemarie Carollo, Music Teacher, Yantacaw School

One of Frank’s most admirable efforts came after tragedy struck Yantacaw Elementary in July 2007. A fourth grade classroom ceiling collapsed during the summer when, thankfully, the classroom was empty. He dealt with television crews, school board members, commissioners, administrators, and worried parents.

As a result of the ceiling collapse, more than half of the classroom ceilings had to be removed.The principal at the time said the school looked like a war zone, and no one thought the school could open in September.

Frank and his custodial crew of two worked with other staff to ensure that the classrooms were clean and environmentally safe for the children’s return, dusting, mopping, and cleaning each room over and over again. 

The school was ready for the first day of class, and his efforts were rewarded with gratitude and admiration. As one teacher said, “He became a hero to the entire Yantacaw Community.

“Mr. Lotito is an inspiration to us all. His kindness, work-ethic, and enthusiasm touches everyone at Yantacaw School.” Rebecca Olivo, Third Grade Teacher, Yantacaw School

“The staff members, parents and children of Yantacaw School hold Mr. Lotito in the highest esteem. He is never too busy to say a kind word, offer help to someone in need, or go out of his way to assist you. He regards Yantacaw School the same way, and with the same pride, as he treats his own home.” MaryLou Dowse, Former Principal, Yantacaw School