In the wake of the largest snowstorm that Chestnut Hill has seen in years, students may have celebrated the time off that it provided. However, while students enjoyed their two consecutive snow days, the maintenance team was hard at work clearing out over two feet of snow from Middlesex Road.

The most recent storm resulted in the first back-to-back snow days since 2015 due to the necessity of snow removal to make coming to school safe. For the duration of both snow days, the maintenance staff spent their time working to clear out massive amounts of snow despite the freezing weather.

The Gator would like to extend its endless gratitude to the maintenance team for their tireless work in keeping our community safe.

Outside of snow removal, the team also acts as bus drivers, crossing guards, and handymen, keeping us and our facilities in working order.

Their efforts make our community great, and we could not be luckier to have them on campus.

Furthermore, the staff never lets frigid temperatures affect their work. They remain reliable,  always offering a high-five, a smile, or a thoughtful conversation, bringing light and warmth during the darkest and coldest time of year.

Thank you, Mr. Smith, Mr. Barker-Hook, Mr. Schmottlach, Mr. Bray, Mr. Salazar, and Mr. Landaverde, for your commitment to the safety of our community.

Update: When it began snowing again this morning, April 7, Maintenance Supervisor Eric Smith had flashbacks on the snowiest winter in over a decade.

“It was crazy getting in this morning to help the kids cross safely in the snow,” Smith said. “I panicked because we didn’t want ot take out our salt machines because we’ve already clearn them. They are packed away in the shed.”

Luckily, there is no additional snow in the forecast as spring sports season gets underway.

Editors’ note: This story was updated Tuesday. Feb. 7 as 12:08 p.m. to include an interview with Eric Smith.