Bill Habel Keeps Southdown School Sparkling

Bill Habel is well known around Southdown Primary School. He’s more than just the head custodian; he’s a proverbial jack of all trades, capable of fixing just about anything and solving almost any problem.

Mr. Habel is a friendly face seen daily by hundreds of Southdown students. When something spills, he quickly cleans it up. When there is a leak, he promptly stops it. The hallways always sparkle. Classrooms are so clean that students sit up and take notice and they try their best to keep the school clean, too.

“Bill Habel treats his building like it’s his own home,” Director of Facilities Richard W. Rouse said. “He constantly looks to improve Southdown Primary School inside, as well as outside. Not only are safety and cleanliness important, but beautification as well. This positively influences the two gentlemen who work alongside him as a team.”

In just two relatively short years in the district, Mr. Habel has made a difference around Southdown. The pride he takes in keeping the building looking great is contagious. Southdown opened in September 1954, but it has never looked better despite it being 71 years old.

“Bill is a positive presence at Southdown Primary School,” Principal Jill Amott-Erwig said. “He truly takes pride in the building and works hard with his team to ensure the building is spotless. He is always willing to lend a helping hand and does so with a smile on his face.”

When it comes to doing his part to make Huntington UFSD the best district it can be, Mr. Habel is “all in.” His commitment to Southdown students and to his position as head custodian are not a burden, but a labor of love.