A well-deserved promotion!
Tylan Bailey has been head janitor at Hightower Elementary School in DeKalb County, Georgia for more than two decades, WSBTV reports. Every day he works long hours, getting to the school in the early morning and staying until late afternoon. In 2017, he decided to go back to college and took classes between his hectic work schedules.
“A lot of people around the building always ask me when do I sleep,” Bailey said.
Returned to college at 40 yrs old, graduated at 43 yrs old with a B.S.E in Health and Physical Education, minor in Special Education with honors "Cum Laude" #GSU21 #statenotsouthern #stateneversouthern @GeorgiaStateU pic.twitter.com/7WLKWRMYvD
— Tylan Bailey (@AllDaTime) May 5, 2021
Now, Bailey has graduated from Georgia State University, getting a degree in teaching that he hopes to use to become a physical educator. He said cleaning the schools inspired him to pursue a career in education.
“Just walking through these halls every day, you’re surrounded by education - each corner of this building, education. So why not be a part of that,” he said.
Hightower Elementary principal Sheila Price said it will be hard to let such a valued employee go. Before Bailey leaves, Price has already asked him to be the commencement speaker at their 5th-grade graduation ceremony.
“He’s the kind of person you want in your building, on your side. It’s a bittersweet moment because we love him, and we want to keep him here. But we know this is a huge step, and we support him. We’re here for him for whatever he needs,” said Principal Price.
Bailey can’t wait to speak at graduation and has already lined up some interviews. He’s hoping to land a job as a physical education teacher soon.
Congratulations, Mr. Bailey! We are sure you’ll be in high demand!
Photo Courtesy of WSBTV