Celebrating a beloved figure in the Excelsior Springs School District, Lenny Smith—known affectionately as “Papa Lenny”—is retiring from his role as custodian at the Early Childhood Center (formerly Westview Elementary School). A resident of Excelsior Springs for 66 years, Lenny’s work at the school district has been one of service, connection, and caring.
After a 31-year career as a Lab Technician with Archer Daniels Midland, Lenny found himself looking for a new purpose. He began helping his wife, Gina, with her daycare, spending eight months lending a hand. During this time, he formed strong bonds with the children, who soon began calling him “Papa Lenny.”
As Christmas break approached, Lenny realized he needed something more to stay busy. Still assisting Gina with her daycare, he heard from Angela Bright—a parent of a former daycare student and and educator in the Excelsior Springs School District—that a custodial position was open. Seeing it as an opportunity to remain close to children and avoid the daily commute to Kansas City, Lenny applied and began his new role.
Now, after 14 years of service at Westview and the Early Childhood Center, Lenny’s career is coming to an end just in time for the holiday season in 2024. Reflecting on his time with the district, Lenny said the most rewarding part of his job was being part of the community where he grew up. Although being a custodian “wasn’t always glamorous,” he found deep satisfaction in his work.
In addition to his custodial duties, Lenny often went above and beyond, supporting teachers and building caring relationships with students. His experiences gave him a profound appreciation for the dedication of educators. He observed teachers daily ensuring student safety, offering emotional support, and going the extra mile—sometimes even crying alongside students in distress.
Lenny also recalls acts of kindness from parents and community members that left lasting impressions. One particularly cold snow day, as he worked to clear sidewalks and parking lots in six-degree weather, a car pulled up, and someone handed him a warm cup of coffee. It warmed both his hands and his heart, he said, a reminder of the quiet rewards of his work.
Looking back, Lenny said he cherishes the friendships he formed with colleagues like Jessica Broadbent, now Principal of Cornerstone Elementary, and Katie Andresen, Principal of ECC, and of course his continued work with Gina during his time with the district. He commended the teachers and staff of Excelsior Springs, saying, “I don’t know how they do what they do every day.”
As he steps into retirement, Lenny plans to spend time in the woods during deer hunting season while considering his next opportunity to give back to the community. To his successor, Papa Lenny offers this advice: “Do it, enjoy the children, and be there for the teachers. It’s a great opportunity.”
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