Thank you to Mr. Payne for twenty-five years of upfront- and behind-the-scenes hard labor, exertion, and the “sweat of one’s brow” to make the physical environment welcoming and inviting to all! Often, it is the employee who is quiet and inconspicuous that goes unnoticed, but Mr. Payne’s efficiency and quality of work make him very noticeable. Each and every day, Mr. Payne goes the extra mile to make sure our school building is a clean and safe environment for all who enter our school doors. Additionally, Mr. Payne greets every staff member daily when he stops by to empty and replace trash bags in our offices and classrooms. His positive and always willing attitude and pleasant demeanor are mainstays at the Pride Lands. We can depend on him to help brighten our day.

Mr. Payne, of his own unselfish free will and pocket, beautifies our school campus by planting flower gardens each spring and educating the students about planting and growing in nature, helping them to develop a growth mindset! His efforts are one of the first things we encounter before coming into the building. It helps to bring a smile to our faces and set a positive tone for the rest of the day. 

Mr. Payne takes great care of our building and, in turn, takes great care of us! The staff and students love Mr. Payne and honor him as our Keeper of the Noel C. Taylor Pride Lands and RCPS Support Staff Member of the Year. He is more than well-deserving of such an honor.