Freddie Nolan Jr., a custodian at J.A. Phillips Elementary School, was recognized as the Webster Parish School District’s September Employee of the Month during the September 14 meeting of the Webster Parish School Board.
Kevin Thompson of Taylor and Sons presented Nolan with the award, recognizing a school employee whose work often takes place behind the scenes but has a daily impact on students, faculty, staff, and families.
Nolan was nominated for the honor by J.A. Phillips Principal Tina Benjamin, who praised his work ethic, reliability, positive attitude, and willingness to go beyond his regular responsibilities to support the school community.
“Mr. Freddie consistently demonstrates an exceptional work ethic, outstanding reliability, and a deep commitment to our school community at J.A. Phillips Elementary,” Benjamin wrote.
Benjamin noted Nolan’s exemplary attendance and the pride he takes in keeping the campus clean, safe, and welcoming. He is frequently among the first employees on campus preparing the school for the day.
That dedication was particularly evident when Phillips was preparing for a school parade that would bring parents to campus early. Nolan volunteered to report to work at 6 AM, an hour and a half before his scheduled start time, without additional pay, to make sure the campus was ready to welcome families.
“He did this because he cares about our school and the impression it makes on families,” Benjamin wrote.
Nolan’s contributions extend beyond maintaining the campus. He has also found ways to bring some fun to the school day and build relationships with students.
During the holiday season, Nolan dressed as an Elf on the Shelf and stood on top of the school’s book-vending machine to bring joy and laughter to students and their families. He has also participated in the school’s St. Jude fundraising efforts, including volunteering to take pies in the face to help raise money.
“These moments show that he is not only hardworking, but also deeply invested in building relationships and school spirit,” Benjamin wrote.
Benjamin said Nolan’s contributions may often take place behind the scenes, but they play an important role in the experience students, staff, and families have at Phillips each day.
“Mr. Freddie’s positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to go above and beyond make him an invaluable member of our team,” Benjamin wrote. “These contributions often happen behind the scenes, but they have a tremendous impact on the experience our students, staff, and families have every day.”
“For these reasons, I am proud to nominate Mr. Freddie for Employee of the Month for the month of September 2026,” Benjamin wrote. “He truly embodies dedication, service, and the spirit of our school community.”